Melissa Gijsbers on LinkedIn: On Friday night, I attended the first business networking event I had… (2024)

NETWORKING: “NOT FUN!”I was leading a business networking event and at the end, I asked one of the guests how their night was, and she responded, “Not fun!”(Not the response I was looking for.)“I’m an introvert.” “Why did you register for our event?” “I’m a business owner so I need to network.” Our events are typically part co*cktail party, part "stand up" and introduce yourself, part strategic breakout groups, and three parts fun. Throughout the event, I noticed that the woman I spoke with appeared miserable to the point that other attendees brought her to my attention. I guess she didn’t make the best impression. It makes me sad to think that this woman dreads being at events but feels obligated to be there all the same. If she’s miserable, how effective can she be?And she’s not alone. Networking isn’t for everyone, although you can be an introvert and still be successful at networking. Also, you can effectively network while never attending an event. If you know how to operate as a networker with your clients, referral partners, and on LinkedIn, you may never need to leave your desk. That said, good networkers often look forward to the next event and the opportunity to meet new people.Here are some ways to make networking more fun, whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or just getting started!EMBRACE A NETWORKING MINDSETGiving, listening, learning, helping – not selling!DEVELOP A GOAL AND A PLANHere’s mine: Meet at least 3 people with the intention to learn and laugh. PREPARE QUESTIONS TO ASKMay I share a quick story? Can you relate? What brings you here? How did you learn of this event? What do you want to accomplish? How can I help? How can I learn more about…? (Start with that!)TAKE NOTESBring an index card and ask permission to take a note. Bring extras as people will ask you for them! (BTW, better than using your phone.)BE INTERESTED IN LEARNING SOMETHINGIf you’re genuinely interested in learning more about an industry, product, trend, association, marketplace, process, etc., it makes everything easier. HAVE THE INTENTION TO FOLLOW UPNothing happens without taking a next step. Sometimes there isn’t a next step but when there is, suggest what it might be and take it. HAVE FUN!Bring up fun topics such as vacations, sports, adventures with your kids, quilting, etc. If there is a holiday coming up, make it part of the conversation. Fun people attract more fun people. How fun! STAY IN TOUCHMake your lists, check them twice. Who will you stay in touch with and why? PROOFREAD, RINSE, REPEATIt’s a process. Decide what worked, what didn’t, make adjustments, improve. Nobody can stop you from learning, having fun, meeting people, improving, and developing your confidence – except you!Key Point: Networking is about making a connection with yourself, first. HOW DO YOU MAKE YOUR NETWORKING MORE FUN?Comment First, then Like!#knockoutnetworking #thenetworkinggroup #businessnetworking

27

27 Comments

I’m often asked to explain what companies get out of Building Partnerships membership when there are other ways and means of networking and gaining introductions without paying a fee! The answer is born out of my own experiences of developing new business when it was my job to do this for a living. Attending other people’s events as a guest mostly achieves revenue and the best results for the organisers. They not only get access to the guest database, but also get to promote their brand both at the event and online before and after. Then there is the dynamic of the event. As a guest you need to work the room. If you are determined to get to meet everyone you risk not identifying those who may be really useful, if you aren’t you risk just talking to the few people you already know. However, as a host you are able to genuinely meet and greet everyone from a position of authority. You are the host, they are your guests. You can go up to anyone, whether you know them or not, and introduce yourself. They are bound to acknowledge you and you get to lead the conversation. Trust me - it works! There is also the cost consideration. To individually organise and host an event can be time consuming and costly. You also have to be able to identify and invite enough guests to make it worthwhile - especially guests you may not know as these are new prospects for your company. Building Partnerships members are organised to co-host events, sharing the cost and inviting guests who are probably new to the other hosting companies. Finally it is a fact that organising events, whether CPD, Workshops, Seminars, Working Lunches/Breakfasts or purely networking gatherings is not easy! There are many considerations: suitable venue, coordination of guests, invitations and follow ups, promotion online and by email, organisation on the day, event media - it takes time and effort that are distractions from your day to day workload. Building Partnerships offers companies both small and larger, a service that is proven to work over many years of experience, originating unique content and innovative ideas designed to promote your services in a challenging market, facilitate introductions, mentor and provide training to your teams to provide them with the confidence to be ambassadors for your brand. To find out how we can assist you and bring new energy to your business growth strategy DM me or email me at john@buildingpsrtnerships.org.uk. Thank you.

3

Feeling rusty with yournetworking skills?Don’t worry, we’ve got some tips for you! With Global Pet Expo coming up, it's a good time to start your networking prep - after all, networking is a key part of any in-person event!And the networking starts before you get there; you need to prepare. Preparation will help you have confidence for the actual event and ensure you leave the event feeling like you accomplished your goal.How to prepare for a networking event: 🎯 Set a goalfor yourself. What is your purpose in attending? What do you hope to accomplish? Knowing this will help guide your conversations. 🤝 Be sure you have current business cards.It may feel old school, but exchanging business cards is still a must during in-person networking events. 📄 Create listsof the people you want to connect with during the event. Or maybe you want to meet with certain brands. Depending on the event, you may even have a list of products you want to seek out. Just be sure to have lists so you can make quick decisions about where to go and what to do. 📒 Be prepared with your note taking plan. Some people like a notebook. Others prefer to use a device. There is no wrong way, but you should know exactly how you are going to keep track of everyone (and everything) you see before you go to the event.Pro Tips: 💻 If you are part of a team, a shared Google Sheet can help organize you ahead of time and keep everyone on the same page. 🗄 Be sure to have a place to store business cards you receive. Neck wallets are great options, but as long as you know where they are going after you get them, you can prevent having them EVERYWHERE.💥 And don’t forget the follow-up. Networking doesn’t end when the event ends. Networking is the beginning of a relationship.👀 Read the full post and stay tuned. We'll share some follow up tips soon!What do you do to prepare for in-person events?#petindustry #networking #globalpetexpo

𝙉𝙀𝙏𝙒𝙊𝙍𝙆𝙄𝙉𝙂 101: 𝙂𝙀𝙏 𝙔𝙊𝙐𝙍 𝙑𝙊𝙄𝘾𝙀 𝘼𝘾𝙍𝙊𝙎𝙎 (𝙋𝘼𝙍𝙏 1)Networking is an important factor in any professional's life. It not only grows one's brand but also helps one get their competence noted (that is, professional recognition). Though there are a number of ways to network, this short write-up only addresses physical event networking. I have attended numerous events organised by different individuals and i have noticed a pattern of behaviors that hinder success in networking at event. So here are three things I hope will help you at your next event as you network.1. Do not share the same line of seats with the group you came with to a networking event unless it is inevitable. This is one of the major challenges that young people face at events. Between comfort and fear, there is one motivating factor that influences young people to act in this way. They'd rather share the same area with the friends that they came with than sit with people that they would want to network with. This practice negatively impacts your objective but also robs you of an opportunity to pick the brain of someone more knowledgeable about the topic at hand. 2. Be comfortable greeting people with a smile on your face and confidence when you reach an event. Trust me, there is nothing more difficult than initiating a conversation with someone you have not spoken to. This is stopped by mostly intrapersonal thoughts of this act being an act of familiarity when, in fact, it is not. Do everything in your power to greet people at an event. It is a big setting; greet the people near you before you take your seat. Its not a celebrity shoot, and you are not Beyonce or Martin Luther King for you to expect people to walk up to you and greet you. Go around and greet those you can, and then take your seat. Also, just in case someone comes to greet you, stand up if they are, and give them a firm handshake if you are not acquitted that much. Don't go to professional events and hug every Jim and Jack that you meet simply because you are a hugger.3. Before the event, try as much as possible to have some basic information about the subject that will lead the event. This will help you reduce the urge to ask questions that can be answered with a simple Google search. Young people are now so eager to get a picture of them holding the mic during Q&A at an event, forgetting that their immediate possible networks are the ones in the room. So as you brave your confidence and open your mouth to ask a question or contribute to the discussion, ensure that there is value in the content that you share with the room. This will get you recognition, and you may even catch the interest of the people in the room. I don't think the president would have wanted to talk to Ruth Ngoma if her question was: What are human rights?Work on these three for now. I will share more when i get the chance. Comment in the comment box on others if you can to help a fellow youth out there.

8

Here's how to become a master networker and find more clients...Networking is a key to success as a business advisor, but most people don't do it well.I’ve coached hundreds of business advisors, and the best coaches know this and become master networkers and connectors.But don't stick to the cheap or free chamber mixers, where the MLM reps are trying to recruit you.Invest a little and attend industry events.Here are ten practical tips to maximize your networking at events:1) Set Clear Goals• Define what you want to achieve.Focus on specific outcomes, like meeting potential clients or learning about new trends.• Prioritize events that align with your goals to ensure you invest your time wisely.2) Do Your Homework• Research the event and the attendees.Identify key people you want to connect with and learn about their interests.• Prepare talking points or questions to engage them effectively.3) Be Genuine• Show genuine interest in others.Ask about their challenges and share relevant insights.Use my MOCAA method to guide you. See the comments.• Build relationships based on trust and mutual benefit, not just self-interest.4) Follow Up• After the event, follow up with new contacts.Send personalized messages to continue the conversation.• Offer value, such as sharing a useful resource or inviting them to a future event.5) Leverage Social Media• Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with attendees before and after the event.Engage with their posts and share your own insights.• Join relevant groups and participate in discussions to expand your network further.6) Attend Workshops and Panels• Participate in sessions that interest you.These are great opportunities to learn and meet like-minded professionals.• Engage with speakers and panelists during Q&A sessions to make a memorable impression.7) Be a Speaker or Panelist• Position yourself as an expert by speaking at events.This increases your visibility and attracts potential clients.• Share valuable insights and practical advice to establish your authority.8) Use Business Cards Wisely• Exchange business cards, but don’t just collect them.Make notes on the back about your conversation to personalize follow-ups.• Use a digital business card app to keep track of contacts and follow-ups easily.9) Join Event Committees• Get involved in organizing industry events.This positions you at the center of the network and increases your visibility.• Collaborate with other committee members to build strong professional relationships.10) Reflect and Improve• After each event, reflect on what worked and what didn’t.Identify areas for improvement in your networking strategy.• Continuously refine your approach to become a more effective networker.There's still time to make 2024 the year you master networking and build the coaching business you deserve.PS: Grab my free resource letter at BusinessBreakthroughAdvisors[dot]com

8

5 Comments

IT ISN'T ALL ABOUT THE SAUSAGE!I have been networking for over 30 years and I think it should be a valuable part of our marketing activity, and therefore it has to give a return. This could be from outsourced suppliers that add value to our business or from people we meet who can link us to a great potential client.I remember in the early days, networking started really early in the morning - and that was fine for me as in my head it was turning unproductive hours into productive hours, and we used to start the meeting with a cooked breakfast and at some locations the sausages were banging! A great banger is what makes a good cooked breakfast a great one. I met with Georgina Dean earlier this week and this cropped up in conversation so I had to do a post on it. I always used to ask people why they went networking and so many used to say, "because its a great cooked breakfast", and I agree. If someone mentioned food at a networking event, I am there - and even better if its FREE 😂 Anyway, I digress. Networking is part of your marketing activity and its needs to pay its way, so its not all about the sausage. Its about the connections you make who can add value to your business in the same way as you can add value to their business. The people we meet can add immense value to our businesses - but only if we get to know them really well on a far deeper level that just attending the same networking events. We don't know what we don't know and we don't know who we don't know. Its rarely who is in the room, its who do they know? By building strong relationships we can get to know our contacts really well and also who they know.Also not all networking groups offer the same. If you are looking for great networking at a small business level, I can point you in the direction of loads I know and I would trust the people who run these events. If you are looking to attend groups where you can meet the higher end of the SME market and actually meet the CEO or the MD's of these companies - some turning over several millions - I can introduce you to those.You need to be where you can meet your ideal client, so you need to check out various networking groups carefully and ask around. The people we meet should be so important to us and our business. They need to add value to us and our businesses and for heavens sake dont just go because they do a good breakfast and the sausages are great!

12

4 Comments

Festive cheer and #Networking for the DiSCERNING BUSINESS PERSON!We are all social creatures, creatures of habit too. The common perception is that the bigger the crowd and the bigger the ticket (read "expensive"), the better."Why ah?", you may ask.>"Because I get to meet more people ma'...>"Expensive means rich & successful people will be there lor"..Is that true?What do you consider to be ‘Effective Networking”? or, for that matter – what is networking and its Purpose?“The purpose of networking isto make new relationships and foster existing ones"., according to an authoritative portal.If you are 5 years or less in your career or business, you certainly need to Focus on meeting and making New relationships while doing a bit of "fostering existing ones” Because you haven’t met them all yet!However, if you have had a business career that spans decades (basically a veteran), perhaps you should adjust the amount of time and effort Networking to Meet New contacts” vs time to “Foster Existing” ones. Unless, you are entering a new market (either by product category, industry or geography)Being creatures of habit, if we have been building our business mainly by networking, naturally, we will be attracted to networking events. And as they say, the bigger the event the better…So off you go to the next “big event’… shaking as many hands as you have exchanged/collected business cards… and unless you are super-diligent or have a tried and trusted system, I guarantee most of those cards will end up in a heap of other business cards or Rolodex at best or tossed into the waste basket at some point at worse.One can argue that, “Well, I got 2 good contacts… Dato’ A and Mr B, both influential people and I’ve got one or two potential customers too. Not bad for one evening…..” Question: How many times will you meet influential Mr B or Dato’ A again?How many times have you met “potential customers” that are not?The common answer I get (from really honest people) is “Don’t know” or “Not sure”. So, consider this.What is your follow-up process after you meet people, especially New people?What first and last impression do you give/leave them with?Do you set up a follow-up meeting or call after meeting a potential customer?Or do you ask permission to send them something useful (eg. Your info-packed newsletter or Blogpost, etc?Here’s another thought.What if you adjusted and spent more time networking with people you already know?And like-minded people who share similar values with you? People you know and trust.And, what if they have a common goal of collaborating among themselves to support one another and grow together?Too good to be true? Why not join us for our annual PEN CNY Dinner ((or any of our upcoming events) and see The #ProfitMAXEntrepreneursNetwork [PEN] difference?Only a few seats left! DM me to book Now! or type "PEN CNY Dinner" below.#CNY2024 #founders #entrepreneurs #ceos

13

3 Comments

Maximize Your Networking Success at Upcoming Festive FunctionsAs we approach the festive season, many of us in the professional services sector are looking forward to attending Christmas functions. While these events are great for celebrating the year's achievements, they are also invaluable opportunities for networking. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of these events, with a special emphasis on the underrated wisdom of having one less drink than everyone else.1. Set Clear GoalsBefore attending any event, define what you want to achieve. Are you looking to meet potential clients, referrers, or colleagues? Having clear objectives will help you focus on the right conversations.2. Research AttendeesIf possible, get a list of who will be attending the event. Researching attendees beforehand allows you to identify key individuals you want to connect with, understand their interests, and prepare meaningful conversation starters.3. Prepare an Elevator PitchDevelop a compelling elevator pitch that sums up what you do and what value you bring. This should be engaging and tailored to the interests of your audience.4. Dress AppropriatelyYour attire should reflect both the occasion and your professional brand. Opt for something that makes you feel confident and comfortable, aligning with the event's dress code.5. Actively EngageShow genuine interest in others by asking open-ended questions and listening attentively. You don't learn anything whilst you are talking!6. Use Business Cards Wisely Offer your card after establishing a connection, and make notes on the cards you receive to recall each interaction later.7. Follow UpPost-event, follow up with the contacts you've made. A quick email or LinkedIn message referencing your conversation can keep the momentum going and open doors for future opportunities.8. Leverage Social MediaUtilize social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with attendees before and after the event. Share insights or interesting articles relevant to the conversations you had.9. Mind Your Body LanguageYour non-verbal cues can speak volumes. Maintain good posture, offer a firm handshake, and use open body language to convey confidence and approachability.10. Practice Moderation in DrinkingLast but not least, practice moderation in drinking. Opting for one less drink than others not only keeps you sharp and focused but also demonstrates self-control and professionalism. It ensures you leave a positive, lasting impression.ConclusionChristmas functions are more than just social gatherings; they are platforms for building and strengthening professional relationships. By following these tips you'll be well-equipped to navigate these events successfully. Remember, these functions are opportunities to showcase your best self and plant the seeds for future business success. Happy networking!#networkingevents #networking #officeparty #networks

31

24 Comments

"How do you go to that many networking events alone? I could never..."The idea of stepping into a crowd of strangers is terrifying for many. I know, because my hands are getting cold and sweaty just thinking about it. Despite all the events I've attended over the years, those who know me, know I am far from an extroverted bubbly bubble. I can get somewhat shy and quiet and need time to warm up.I've recently realized I've established a routine that calms my nerves at events, and I thought it might also be helpful for someone. On attending events:1. 📒 Be prepared: Look up the event, the organization, and the agenda. Do a mental rundown to get a better picture of what to expect.2. ⏰ Get there early: I get to an event early and scout the place out. I take laps around the venue or the neighborhood. I look for restrooms, water fountains, and places where I can sit. If things get overwhelming, I know there's a quiet place to take a breath.3. 💭 Think of past successes: This is something I learned from therapy. Think of past victories when facing challenges. It's ok to be scared, but you are often stronger than you think :)4. ❤️ Give yourself grace: Tend to your inner child. Tell yourself that you have permission to leave if it gets too uncomfortable. Or if you are feeling unwell, it's ok not to go. (Remember to notify the event planners!)On meeting people:1. 👯 Don't stress, there's no scoreboard: Making one friend is more valuable than talking to 20 people. And if you don't meet someone you click with, that's fine. People are not Pokemon. You don't have to catch them all.2. 🤝 Giving mindset: You meet people not for self-promotion purposes but to help. Be attentive to others' needs, and think how you can help and support. 📕 Good read: Adam Grant's Give and Take.3. 🗺 Opportunity to learn: Meeing people gives you the chance to open up new worlds. More than often I learn new things from people I just met, be it industry news, fun facts or their local go-to restaurant! 4. ☃ Pick iceball analogy: "How to talk to anyone" is by far one of my favorite videos on talking with strangers. Jenn Im gives an excellent anology on how meeting people is like ice picking a mountain, you gather bits and chunks of snow when conversing. As the snowball grows, your relationship grows as well. 📹 Strongly recommend:"How to talk to anyone" Jenn Im (youtube link in comments)Everyone has different levels of anxiety when it comes to attending events. These routines and mindsets, along with deep breaths, have been helpful for me. (Or if it's an online event, warm socks, a blanket, and a hot beverage are my go-to!)The next thing I want to work on is to be better at reaching out and following up with people, so if there are any tips on building and growing relationships, please do share :)

51

11 Comments

Are you tired of attending business networking events that promise the world but deliver little more than motivational speeches and a stack of forgotten business cards? You're not alone. Many entrepreneurs and professionals share your frustration with the superficial nature of traditional networking gatherings. However, there's a way to approach business networking that can yield tangible results and foster meaningful connections. It's time to reimagine business networking with practical strategies that focus on authenticity, value, and purpose.Setting Clear ObjectivesBefore stepping foot into any networking event, it's crucial to define clear objectives. Ask yourself: What do I hope to achieve? Whether it's finding new clients, establishing partnerships, or gaining industry insights, setting specific goals will help you focus your efforts and make the most out of your time.reimagining business networking requires a shift in mindset and approach. By setting clear objectives, targeting relevant events, engaging with purpose, offering value, nurturing relationships, seeking practical solutions, and remaining open to learning, you can unlock the true potential of networking. Let go of the superficiality of traditional networking and embrace a more meaningful and authentic approach—one that fosters genuine connections and drives mutual success.Ready to take your networking game to the next level? Join us at our upcoming Networking and Awards Event where you'll have the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals, gain valuable insights, and celebrate achievements within the industry.Secure Your Tickets Now!Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to network with industry leaders and innovators at the dare to be networking and awards event at Newscafe mall at 55 in centurion, 27th March 2024. Become a SponsorAre you a brand looking to increase product or service awareness? Consider sponsoring our Networking and Awards Event for only R5000. As a sponsor, you'll receive:- Brand exposure to a targeted audience of industry professionals and decision-makers.- Recognition in event marketing materials, including social media promotions and email newsletters.- Opportunity to showcase your products or services at the event venue.- Exclusive interview opportunity with renowned media personality Nonhle Thema, providing additional exposure for your brand.Make Your MarkDon't miss this chance to make meaningful connections, elevate your brand, and contribute to the success of our Networking and Awards Event. Secure your tickets or become a sponsor today!

10