Christmas parties, family gatherings, there are social/business introductions coming up for us all. This is a time to bring your own special brand of warmth to the season and shine forth in a usually rude, cold world. Here are 3 networking tips to make your next introduction smooth, pleasant, warm, and a great showcase for you!
#1. STYLE, SMILE & NAME NAMES
“You never get a 2nd chance to make a 1st impression.” Like it or not, you will make an impression in the first few seconds of any introduction, even before you say one word.
You don’t have to be Bat Masterson or Lana Turner, but a polished image does speak volumes. Make sure hair, clothes, shoes are tasteful and appropriate to the occasion. Like windowdressing, your image will either invite a closer look, or not.
A sincere smile with eye contact is powerful, it lights up your face and, again, invites a second look. That, plus a tad bit of formality (even if it’s love at first sight!), will go a long way toward the mental picture of you which people carry forward. This is a one-time chance, why not make the most it, for the sake of potential friends and clients?
What’s in a name? You feel flattered when someone remembers yours, so make an effort to remember a name. It’s a simple social grace, the basis of networking, and a compliment to you in the long run. If the room is noisy and you honestly didn’t hear, ask again; people will be pleased you cared enough. Then rephrase it in the form of small talk, “John, when did you arrive?”
