Now-a-days we have multiple online networking tools, which are really great, and create their own purpose, but there may be times when we forget that some of the most meaningful networking takes place face-to- face.
Throughout the year, SMG holds several face-to-face networking types of events for each of our members and as an organization we hold each one of our relationships in the highest regards. It is truly the greatest group of “safety” minded professionals in the industry. We feel that those events help to provide additional valuable one on one time with one another.
In October, we will be holding our Annual Membership Appreciation Reception in Orlando, the week of the NSC, and I know most of you have been around the block a time or two when it comes to business networking. However, I thought with the National Safety Congress approaching, a place where a lot of those face-to-face networking opportunities happen, it would be a good time to review some of those networking essentials:
1. Introductions! You may be new to the organization, so don’t be afraid to reach out to the member beside you and tell them who you are. If you don’t recognize a member, introduce yourself to them. It may expand your horizons and you may just learn something new from that member you never talked to before. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself either. You are your own limitations when it comes to a successful networking function or event. If you are looking for someone in particular to talk to, ask the host or hostess of the event to introduce the two of you. It’s ok to ask for a little help from time to time.
2. Practice good listening and ask questions. Doing these two things helps validate the values of others and shows respect. I was also told from someone once: the people who ask a lot of questions are rather quite intelligent and get a lot of information.
3. Be memorable, in a good way. Have you ever attended an event, gotten someone's card, and when you look at it later you can't remember anything about them? You don't want to be one of those people to others.
4. Collect information. Giving out your business cards isn't nearly as important as collecting others' and making notes, either written or mentally, that will allow you to follow up effectively.
5. Work the room! If you stand in one place for the entire event, you will limit the number of face-to-face interactions you have. To make the most out of any event, you want to greet and speak with as many people as you can. So move about.
6. Create value for others. This is the essence of networking. Look for opportunities to be of service and you'll benefit in the long run as well.
As we approach our next group event, I encourage each of you to introduce yourselves. Who knows...maybe you will make some new business acquaintances. If you need help with any introductions, please let Mike or I know. We would be glad to initiate that first meeting and face-to-face greeting with you. Also, really listen and ask questions. You never know what new things you may learn from each other. Just by doing this you will strengthen your relationships, which is at the core of our partnership!
As an added reminder, thank you all again for your continued support and participation to SMG. We look forward to seeing you all in Orlando in October, where we will come together to celebrate each Distributor and Supplier Member, and continue to network and focus on strengthening and growing our relationships!
Safety Marketing Group
Operations Manager
Jennifer.Hogeland@smgna.com
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