Bossy! Magazine Issue 1 November 2014 | Page 31

Here are a few tips:

1. Be the first to say hello

2. Be able to succinctly tell others - in a few short sentences what you do

3. Be ready to tell others something interesting or challenging about what you do

4. Be aware of open and closed body language (hyper link)

5. Smile, make eye contact, offer a handshake and go find the "approachable" person

6. See that the time is balanced between giving and receiving information not one-sided

7. Keep up to date on current events and issues that affect our lives

8. Be ready to issue invitations to other to join you for other events/activities to further the relationship

9. Start and end your conversations with the person's name and a handshake or warm greeting.

10. Compliment others about what they are wearing, doing or saying. Be truthful. "I adore 11. those earrings. Where did you purchase them?

12. Include everyone in a group conversation whenever possible. (Through a life preserver to someone who may also look frightened lost or unsure of themselves and include them in discussions nbny asking, "What are your thoughts on that?"

13. Prepare ahead of time for each social or business function.

Now that you are armed with the tools needed to begin you networking journey,

here are a few quick open ending questions and statements you can use when meeting someone for the first time.

iness off the ground, Do you have any ideas?

It's important to note that it doesn't take a social butterfly to be an effective network. It takes simple strategy. Below is a simple 10 Step Strategy that will make an immediate impact at your next networking event.

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