Is Your Net-working?

Linda & Shawn McCarthy
Executive Directors
Business Network Int'l

Making contacts that turn into relationships is the foundation of a prosperous word-of-mouth based business. People new to networking repeatedly ask us, "What can I do to meet more people and make better contacts at business mixers?" In answer to this question, let us share with you the "Ten Commandments of Networking a Mixer", taken from the book "The World's Best Known Marketing Secret" by Dr. Ivan Misner, founder & CEO of Business Network International....

1. Have your networking tools with you at all times. (i.e., business cards, name badge, pen, etc.)
2. Set a goal for the number of people you'll meet.
3. Act like a host and not a guest.
4. Listen and ask questions.
5. Give a lead or referral whenever possible.
6. Describe your product or service in 60 seconds or less. (Hint: this is not the place to close the deal!)
7. Exchange business cards with the people you meet.
8. Spend 10 minutes or less with each person you meet.
9. Write comments on the backs of the business cards you collect. (Especially if you promised to follow-up with them about anything)
10. Follow up with the people you meet. (This is the MOST important step. If you skip this you've wasted your time.)

Networking is a learned skill. Practice, practice, practice and watch how it changes your business life. Go for it!

Business Network Int'l is a business and professional networking organization whose primary purpose is to exchange qualified business referrals. It is the most successful organization of its type in North America today, with 5 thousand chapters in operation in 37 countries. Last year, members of Business Network Int'l passed over 4.9 million referrals which generated more than $2 billion (U.S.) of business for its members!

For more information about BNI, call Linda or Shawn McCarthy, Executive Directors @ 805-815-3658 or check out the national BNI web site at  www.bni.com

Email: Linda@BNI-VC.com
Email: Shawn@BNI-VC.com