Mike Adams : Lessons from going to 1000+ networking events ! OnlyFounders App Podcast

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares valuable networking insights, emphasizing the importance of adopting a helpful, non-sales mindset. Successful networkers focus on understanding others' pain points and making meaningful introductions rather than selling products. Key tips include tailoring your responses to the person you're speaking with, keeping answers concise, and using basic psychological techniques to engage and connect with others. The goal is to build relationships, trust, and offer value, ultimately leading to stronger partnerships and opportunities. Networking should be about helping others, not self-promotion, creating genuine, enjoyable conversations.

Takeaways

• 😀 Shift your mindset at networking events from selling to helping others. Focus on how you can assist others rather than pushing your own services.
• 😀 Networking is about building relationships and offering value through introductions to others, rather than seeking direct clients or customers.
• 😀 A successful networker actively listens to understand others' pain points and how they can help, rather than immediately offering solutions.
• 😀 Approach every conversation with a mindset of generosity and helping others succeed to build trust and lasting business relationships.
• 😀 When answering the question 'What do you do?', keep your response concise—under 7 seconds—to maintain the listener's attention and engagement.
• 😀 Tailor your response to the person you're speaking with. Adjust your answer based on their profession to make it more relevant and interesting.
• 😀 Use humor and engaging language to keep your introductions lively and memorable. A fun and interesting response can spark further conversation.
• 😀 Network with the understanding that you're meeting potential introducers, not just customers. Connect with those who can open doors to new opportunities.
• 😀 Use basic psychology skills to create engaging conversations. Smile, be positive, and avoid complaining to maintain a pleasant atmosphere.
• 😀 Remember, networking is similar to social interactions at a bar—engage, seduce (in a conversational sense), and get others interested in talking to you.
• 😀 Networking events are opportunities to bond with others, build trust, and form potential business partnerships, not just to sell your product or service.

Q & A

What is the primary goal of networking at events according to the speaker?

The primary goal of networking at events is to make valuable connections, particularly by helping others, rather than focusing on direct selling or seeking clients.

Why is it important to focus on helping others at networking events?

Focusing on helping others at networking events helps build relationships and trust. People are more likely to remember and want to collaborate with those who have helped them, which ultimately benefits both parties.

What are some common questions to ask at networking events?

Some common questions to ask include: 'How can I help you?', 'What is your number one pain point?', and 'Who can I introduce you to?'. These questions help understand the other person's needs and create opportunities for meaningful connections.

What is the wrong mindset to have when attending networking events?

The wrong mindset is to approach networking events with a sales mentality, trying to sell your services to everyone you meet. This can create discomfort and drive people away, as they feel pressured.

How should you answer the question 'What do you do?' at a networking event?

Your answer should be concise, ideally less than 7 seconds. It should also be tailored to the person you're speaking with, making it relevant to their interests or profession.

What is the suggested approach for tailoring your response to 'What do you do?'?

You should adapt your answer based on the person asking. For example, if you’re talking to a lawyer, you might say, 'I help lawyers with [specific task].' This shows you’ve thought about their profession and makes your response more engaging.

Why is a concise answer important when someone asks what you do?

A concise answer keeps the conversation engaging and respectful of the other person’s time. It allows the person to quickly understand whether there’s potential for collaboration or further discussion.

What are some psychological techniques to use during networking events?

You should smile, stay positive, and be engaging. These psychological techniques help attract people to you, making them more likely to engage in a meaningful conversation. Also, being a good listener and using humor can strengthen connections.

How does the psychology of engagement at networking events resemble other social settings?

The psychology of engagement at networking events is similar to social interactions at places like bars or clubs. You want to captivate the other person’s interest, be engaging, and avoid being boring. The goal is to make the conversation enjoyable and memorable.

What is the importance of having a giving mindset at networking events?

A giving mindset at networking events leads to more productive and meaningful conversations. By focusing on helping others, offering value, and making introductions, you create stronger connections and build lasting relationships that can be mutually beneficial.