Tips for Successful Speed Networking

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Speed Networking Event:

Before the event:

• Be sure you know where you are going and plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early
• Bring plenty of business cards (50-100 should be enough)
• Bring a Pen and preferably a bag to easily collect material tp move onto the next seat quickly
• Think about your "pitch" and what you are going to say for 90 seconds. We recommend a very brief description of what you do and then tell the person across from you who you are looking to meet. Keep it brief. Don't try to sell in 90 seconds!

At the event:
Wear a name tag with your first name and peferably who you are looking to meet
Introduce yourself to the organizers and try to find out which side of the tables are rotating
Be sure to mix and mingle before hand and start to get your "pitch" down.

Before the start of the introductions:

• Grab a good seat: If you can, sit in a seat that does not rotate (so you don't have to move during the event)
• Be sure there is water on the table and that your glass is full
• Neatly place your business cards, pens, and any other material you brought in front of you
• Be sure not to sit across from people you already know, or work with (this is a time to meet NEW people!)
• Listen Carefully to the Moderator's instructions to be sure you don't miss important information

The first 90 seconds...

• Take a deep breath, smile and relax
• Shake the hand of the person across from you
• Determine who's going to speak first

If it's Your turn to talk:

• If you are the one to talk, hand them your business card (2 preferably- one for them to keep and one to give away)
• Stick with your prepared pitch, and remember this is NOT a time for selling! You want to build your network and let them bring perspective clients to YOU!

If it's the other person's turn to talk:

• Put your listening ears on!
• Grab your pen and on the back of their business card write down one or two key phrases or words that will help you remember what it is they are looking for!
• Be sure to make eye contact, nod and acknowledge what they are saying without words

If there is time left in your 90 seconds, ask questions! Get clarification on what they spoke about or ask them if they know of anyone that might utilize your product or service!

At the end of 3 minutes:

• Shake hands, and properly depart
• If you are the one moving, quickly gather your material and move to the next seat (remember the quicker everyone moves, the more people you get to meet!)
• Take a sip of water, a deep breath and begin again!