business networking

Asking for referrals is something that I am horrible with. I rarely ever ask anyone to refer me. Often people will attend events and tell me how much they enjoyed the event and the format. Now, I know I should say thank you and ask them to tell their friends about me, but I usually just smile and say thank you for the kind words. I am just too cautious and I do not want to make people feel uncomfortable.

If you simply say ‘if you like the service I provided, can you please tell your friends?’ this is keeping things super casual and most people will tell you that of course they will spread the word.

The simple answer is to say it nicely.

Let me give you two examples. A few years ago I sent an email to a person asking him to attend one of my networking events. He responded by saying he does not want to attend my stupid events and to never email him again. Wow, what a jerk! There was no need for his hostility.

Kevin Willett says it’s not cool to be disrespectful

Have you ever been at a networking event and the person you are talking to is scanning the room to see who else is there? Have you ever had someone interrupt you in the middle of your conversation to go speak to someone else? I call this Cool Kid Syndrome. Sometimes people will only speak to you until someone cooler comes along. Please don’t do this! It is very disrespectful and it will hurt your brand.  Nobody likes to fee disrespected or uncool.

Kevin Willett says that doing your homework before and event, can really make you stand out.

It amazes me how few people take the time to research event attendees before going to a networking event.  This one simple tip can greatly improve your results.

A few weeks ago I went to a networking event at a school and each one of the employees had taken the time to research me. They asked me about my networking groups, my book, my radio and TV show. It was very impressive and made me feel special.

Kevin Willett thinks everyone can benefit from time management

This semester I am teaching a class at the University and one of the topics is The Importance of Time Management Skills. A great topic, because students often struggle with managing their time. When I was preparing for the class, I realized that my friends who struggle with their business often have poor time management skills. Here are a few suggestions to help you manage your time.

Kevin Willett says act yourself or you can be perceived as disingenuous or lacking center.

Kevin Willett says to mingle more for new contacts

Kevin Willett says to surround yourself with people who will help you make an impact

Kevin Willett wants you stick to your New Year's Resolution of being a better networker