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Synopsis

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by commitments and obligations. You can’t get wasted time back. Here are a few tips to help you get a high return on your networking investment.

1. Be “on” 24/7: opportunities can come at any time.
2. Learn to play golf—or something else that aligns with your interests and skills and those of the people you want to meet.
3. Have “purposeful meal” meetings that give you more than just calories.
4. Make first impressions count. Take a closer look at your appearance and body language.
5. Seek out a referral networking group or join a chamber of commerce.
6. Sponsor select events or host a purposeful event.

Brought to you by Networking Now.

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Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Synopsis

Dr. Misner recorded this episode from the International Directors’ Conference for BNI in Long Beach, California. It’s almost like being at a UN meeting: at least 39 countries are represented. All BNI members are welcome to attend.

Here are some questions you can ask when you’re meeting someone for the first time. Remember not to do this as an interrogation. Your goal is to get people to open up.

• What do you do? How does that work?
• Who’s in your target market?
• What do you like most about what you do?
• What’s new in your industry?
• What sets you apart from your competition?
• Why did you start your business?
• Where is your business located?
• What’s your most popular product or service?
• How do you generate most of your business?
• What’s a good referral for you?
• What’s the biggest challenge for you in your business?

Suggested reading: Bob Burg’s Endless Referrals.

Brought to you by Networking Now.

View the entire transcript of this episode

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Synopsis

Today’s podcast comes from Dr. Misner’s new book, The 29% Solution.

There are two elements involved in becoming a networking magnet:

1. Your ability to attract people
2. Your approachability

In order to stand out from your competition, you need to be the go-to person, the one with a broad network, the one who knows other people who can solve problems.

To maximize your approachability:

• Be ready to engage.
• Focus on Common Points of Interest (CPI).
• Give flavored answers (e.g. “Remarkable” instead of “Fine.”)
• Don’t cross your arms at networking events. Ever.
• Conquer your fear of rejection.
• Wear your name tag. A name is the piece of information most often forgotten.

Thanks to Scott Ginsberg for the approachability tips.

Brought to you by Networking Now.

View the entire transcript of this episode