Business networking is an effective and efficient way for business people to connect, develop meaningful relationships, and grow their businesses. These achievements don’t come through a direct sales approach, however. They come from being interested in helping others, in listening, and in purposefully meeting and introducing people to one another. In this two-day course, participants will learn the essential ingredients for business networking, including in-person, people-centered connections and online spaces such as LinkedIn.
You will spend the first part of the day getting to know participants and discussing what will take place during the workshop. Students will also have an opportunity to identify their personal learning objectives.
To begin, participants will consider what networking is all about and evaluate how committed they are to networking.
In this session, participants will explore some ways to differentiate themselves from the competition and contribute to a networking group.
This session will share ways for participants to leverage body language, business card etiquette, and name recall to make a positive first impression. Participants will also learn the CONDUIT acronym.
During this session, participants will develop an introduction that concisely and accurately outlines what they have to offer.
In this session, participants will learn how to start, manage, and exit a conversation.
To start Day Two of the course, participants will learn about the five factors of a good handshake and practice their skills.
Next, participants will learn how to accept and distribute business cards. QR codes will also be covered.
This session will share ways to handle awkward situations. Participants will also consider the characteristics of introverts and extroverts.
In this session, participants will learn some techniques for following up with networking contacts.
Then, participants will learn how to manage contacts. Key skills for networking will also be discussed.
In this day and age, not all networking will take place in person. This session will share ways to use LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and other social networking tools to build a digital network.
At the end of the course, students will have an opportunity to ask questions and fill out an action plan.
