Do you SOUND like an expert in your field?

Whether you realized it or not, you used an elevator speech in NYC. The benefit of an elevator speech, and maybe this phrase has developed a negative connotation, is it gives an individual an opportunity for open dialogue at any event. The conversation at that point will go in the direction the two people want it to. An elevator speech can also be about your hobbies, entertainment activities, etc. No one has to use one, but it does help when you enter a room full of strangers and leave with a host of friends and associates. Regardless of what you use to open dialogue, always have a smile on your face and in your heart!

I understand that in the USA there is a meritocracy and in certain aspects I like that. I do maintain however...any sick or ailing horses may wish to head for the corner of the paddock at this point...that people buy people first and foremost and simply listing what you do, or have done, isn't who you are and won't be the main factor in whether I deal with you or not. The most important decision of my life...who I spent my life with, was not based on an elevator speech. The second most important decision wasn't either. I can't think of any single long term social or business relationship that has been, or in my opinion should be.

You are who you are, be proud of that and let it shine through. Your profession is probably a means to an end and nothing else. Afterall, who'd say that they were and always wanted to be a burger flipper, an accountant, a button pusher. Whose dreams are to drive a fork lift in a storage unit...that's just what you do. Ooops call the vet, I think I heard trigger bite the dust!

Ron, surely the ability to be able to speak-open dialogue-is what gives you and I the opportunity to open, or join a conversation, something like "Hello" for example. Finally before I end up with sufficient horse flesh to open a French Restaurant, remember who set this thread on its way and where they are coming from on this subject. Some of the judgements on responses show a hint of bias...anyone for hoof pie?

Simply pointing out the only praise from you has been for those who concur with your aims, isn't libellous, it's an observation and as such is neither critical, nor is it not nice, it's analytical of the content that's been posted

As with an elevator speech, it's important to understand the motivation, the source, and any bias, otherwise we'd all believe everything everyone says and have no opinions and be devoid of any judgement. Which is one more reason to be genuine and not as was so well put earlier "a human business card" because you will be judged.

Sorry if you can't find anything that's nice in that.

"Last night I attended the Oregon Chapter meeting for the National Speaker's Assoc. Each person I met had a smile on their face, and consequently "sounded" like they had a smile in their voice. These professional speakers plan, prepare and practice their thoughts and words, so they sound polished and professional, yet natural and confident when they speak one-on-one or to a group."

Preparation through Practice Produces Prosperity. Focus on how you can help people grow and growth will come to you.

Whatever “technique” you employ to communicate should be comfortable to you. Assimilate the ideas, thoughts and methods you read here, but above all be you. Measure and experiment, networking is a never ending learning process.

Two eyes, Two ears, one mouth. Eye Contact, Listen, speak to question and clarify. People will want to talk to you and establish relationships.

Lauren, - Thanks for starting this thread.

And Chuck, many thanks for your input. Well said.

I too have appreciated this discussion and have learned from all of you. What it shows me is that there is no one right way to network. Thanks for sharing your experience with us, Chuck. And thank you, Lauren, for starting the conversation.

Peace out, means what exactly? You've finished, or I should go away? Or, you don't like being disagreed with? Or, you can not find merit in any contrary opinions?

Perhaps rehearsed speeches are needed when clarity of message is befuddled.

Great topic, Lauren, and an interesting discussion.

I recently stumbled upon a video clip of someone's presentation on this very subject. One approach to networking mentioned was to attend networking events with your 'palm up'. In other words, go with the idea of offering a solution to someone else's needs. Engage someone in a conversation and listen for an opportunity to offer them a solution, a referral, or a way get to their need met.

On the surface this approach doesn't appear to serve your needs, or the reason why you chose to attend the networking event in the first place. But this approach, according to this speaker, will lead to people wanting to respond in kind, offering you solutions and referrals and new business. It apparently worked for this speaker who gave numerous examples. But yes, she was prepared before attending events. Prepared to engage in conversations with people with the intent to listen for opportunities to provide solutions.

I found this an interesting approach to networking at an event. I find people tend to focus on getting their 'pitch' across at these events, rather than listening for a window of opportunity to talk about yourself in a context that's helpful to someone else.
Going to an event prepared to be a 'problem-solver' could actually lead to someone meeting your needs in a direct way, and you might even get their full attention.

My two cents. I plan to try it the next networking event I attend.

Carla,

Love it and put so much more amicably than I could have done.

Lauren, great starter question! Great responses.

You and I share the same philosophy of networking. Here's some additional thoughts.

Networking takes time. Time is money. Those using networking to build new business can't afford to misuse time. It costs in dollars and lost opportunities when done haphazardly. Hence, I promote planning.

Think of your networking as part of your marketing mix. Network strategically to gain exposure, build your credibility, and do your own market research.

Great networking conversations are built around discovery. Not selling! If you get around alot like Jeff, the conversations do become second nature. If you don't it pays to plan.

After doing the homework that Lauren recommends (knowing who you are, what you do, how you can serve others) you can show up, ask good questions, and learn far more about another person in a very natural conversation than you would by talking about yourself.

Here are a couple of things I do to increase my payoff and leverage time when networking.

I choose events by the following criteria:

1. Target market rich (potential business development)
2. Target strategic partner rich (potential opportunties, cross marketing, and resources)
3. Fun (we are whole people, not just our work)
4. Contribution (attending events to give back to the community, people group, or individuals makes me feel good)
5. Professional Development (I always want to be increasing my knowlege base)

Here is another quick list. As I ask questions I try to discern the following:

1. Is this a prospect? (not so I can sell them on the spot but I can know how best to follow up)
2. Is this a potential partner? (I am always looking for people who do exceptional work)
3. Is this a connection to opportunity, resources, or information? (We can learn alot from from other people's experiences)
4. Is this a great person to know. (Sometimes the person you are speaking with is just "cool". I like to know cool people.)

David, I wholeheartedly agree with you. When I hear elevator speech, I cringe. I think it is overated in most networking environments. Good questions can overcome many a botched opening introduction. I know. It still happens to me.

Happy Networking!

Oops! I realized I didn't address the original question.

Conversations that are question driven in a natural manner can convey your expertise far more effectively than most practiced presentations. It also communicates your understanding that networking should be mutually beneficial.

Not intending to be random in my comment...just posting on the fly.

I like any conversation that opens with Ooops!

It makes them sound dangerous.

People have different personalities and different ways of networking. I think it's generous to share what works for us and it's more generous not to place judgement towards other's approach.

I attended networking events that fit my schedule. I believe networking is not only to meet the people, but also their associates. Each of us has more than 200 close associates in average. That's the network we bring into a networking event and that's the capacity we encounter with everyone in the event.

I don't plan what to say in advance since that's not my nature. I listen. I interact and I learn.

Do I craft my marketing message so it's precise and clear? You bet. That's one of the workshops I lead. I think it's important when I have a chance to say what I do and people get the message in a couple of minutes.

As long as I can talk about tax or accounting, I'm fine. If you can explain to someone how to save money, and put it in simple terms so they understand it, then they respect your expertise. That's especially true in a field where people feel so lost.