Networking for Success | Theresa Reaume | TEDxWindsor

Summary

This script emphasizes the importance of networking as a skill for business growth. It offers practical tips such as reading up on current events, using open-ended questions, and connecting over shared interests. The speaker stresses that networking is about building relationships, not immediate sales, and highlights the VCP process: Visibility, Credibility, and Profitability. The summary also underscores the significance of being memorable and following up after events to solidify connections.

Takeaways

• 🤝 **Networking as a Skill**: Networking is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice.
• 😟 **Overcoming Intimidation**: It's normal to feel intimidated, but there are strategies to help you network effectively.
• 👥 **Body Language**: Be aware of your own and others' body language when entering a room full of strangers.
• 🔍 **Lateral Networking**: Engage in meaningful conversations by asking open-ended questions and showing interest in others.
• 📚 **Add Value**: Stay informed on current events and trends to contribute to conversations and provide value.
• 🔎 **Research**: Before meeting someone you admire, research them to find common interests and build rapport.
• 🏢 **Branding**: Understand that you are your brand, and how you present yourself can influence how others perceive you.
• 🙅‍♂️ **No Direct Selling**: Networking events are not for closing sales but for building relationships and trust.
• 👀 **Visibility, Credibility, Profitability (VCP)**: Follow the VCP process to build a successful network over time.
• 🌟 **Be Memorable**: Make a positive impression to be remembered for the right reasons.
• 📧 **Follow Up**: Always follow up after networking events to solidify connections and increase credibility.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of networking according to the speaker?

The primary purpose of networking is to build relationships, rapport, and trust, rather than directly closing sales.

Why did the young woman mentioned in the script leave the event and cry?

The young woman left the event and cried because she found it intimidating to walk into a room full of strangers and initiate conversations.

What is the first networking tip shared by the speaker?

The first networking tip is about body language. It's important to approach people standing in open circles and to be aware of your own body language to appear approachable.

What does the speaker mean by 'lateral networking'?

Lateral networking refers to connecting with others based on similar interests, such as sports, travel, books, music, or movies, to build rapport before discussing business.

Why is it beneficial to research someone before meeting them at an event?

Researching someone before an event can help find common ground, making it easier to start a conversation and build a connection.

What does the speaker suggest doing to add value in a conversation?

The speaker suggests staying informed about current events and business trends so you can contribute to the conversation if asked.

How does the speaker define the 'networking disconnect'?

The 'networking disconnect' refers to the misconception that networking is about closing sales immediately. The speaker emphasizes that it's about building relationships over time.

What is the VCP process mentioned by the speaker?

The VCP process stands for Visibility, Credibility, Profitability. It's a process where one needs to be visible, build credibility over time, which eventually leads to profitability.

Why is it important to follow up after networking events?

Following up after networking events helps to continue building credibility and relationships, which can lead to future business opportunities.

What quote does the speaker use to conclude the script?

The speaker concludes with a quote by Christine Lynch, stating that 'networking is marketing marketing yourself, marketing your uniqueness and marketing what you stand for.'

What should one avoid doing at networking events according to the speaker?

One should avoid selling or closing sales at networking events, as well as being remembered for the wrong reasons such as overeating, over-sitting, or over-drinking.