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These days, there are networking events every where you look!

But, who are these events benefiting? The delegates or the host! I will let you decide.

Do people really know how to package and pitch their business at these events? Personally,

I believe that if people are to be successful at these events; there must be a strategy and possibly some training in place.

But who's responsible, if anyone to ensure that some form of leverage is maintained?

Here are some things that I Hate about networking event.

1. One person just keep chatting away with no due regard that the other person might need to say something about their own cause for attending
   
2. The person to whom I'm speaking glancing all over the room in an attempt to spot potential customers- ultimate disrespect
   
3. A blatant attempt to be sold a business that I have no need for
   
4. The host have clearly gathered an audience to sell their own business with no real regard or benefits for anyone else 

Do not get caught out- make the most of networking events and ensure that you come away with something that will benefit your business. It is worth noting that people attend networking events for a variety of reasons such as:-

• To raise brand profile
• To socialise
• To generate business
• For job opportunities
• Competitor intelligence
• For suppliers and so on

So it's worth finding out why people are there first before you assume that they would like to purchase your products and/or services!

Here are a few pointers:-

1. Make a note of your skills BUT highlight the benefits of those skills along with the problems that you can relieve- don't start telling people about your degrees or qualifications! People don't really buy features, they buy benefits!
   
2. Structure your conversation in a sensible manner. You would not tell a stranger your deepest secrets so start casually, get to know people and for goodness sake- Be genuine about it!
   
3. Building business relationships takes time and energy so avoid a quick fix mentality at networking events
   
4. Be honest and realistic about what you would like to achieve and move accordingly!
   
5. Be happy even if competitors are in the room! In fact use it as an opportunity to learn from them
   
6. Maintain an open body language when necessary, and try to become approachable! 

Finally, it might be worth it to get some training on communication and presentation skills that will help you to sell your business in the correct way. Communication and Presentation skills event coming up on July 3

Your feedback would be appreciated and do search our business section for related events.