|
One of the
best ways to advance your career is to learn how to connect
with people.
A good start
might be to determine your “Networking IQ” with an
on-line quiz at CareerBuilder.com. It’s a fun test that asks only eight questions and then gives a
helpful diagnosis of your answers.
Here’s a
big networking hint: when in doubt, think about how you might show interest
in other people. The key to being a great networker is to heed Barbara Walters’s key to being interesting. She said,
“The secret to be interesting is to be interested.”
Of course,
the best networkers don’t just network at schmooze-fests.
They make connecting with others a way of life, practicing what “The Five Foot Rule.” That is, great networkers, say “Hello” to anyone
within five feet. The benefits can be amazing and very quick.
One
salesperson who practices the “five foot rule” told us
recently of sitting on an airplane and striking up a
conversation with the lawyer in the next seat. A week later
the lawyer's partner called with a major piece of business.
Great
networking is about connecting with people, showing interest
in them, and building relationships. Do that and you’ll have
a resource for building business.
At
Speechworks we help our clients learn how to communicate in a
way that connects and persuades. If you’re interested in
becoming a great communicator give us a call at 404-266-0888
or check out our website at
www.speechworks.net |
