Practice Management

You?re not alone.

Many people are reluctant to approach strangers at networking events. They feel shy, or they simply don?t have the energy to connect with people.

The key is to mentally prepare yourself before you walk into the room.

Design an action plan, set goals, and let a positive attitude guide your behavior.

Overcome any negative self-talk, and become a savvy networker, with these simple steps:

• Find a networking buddy, but part ways after 5 minutes.
• Act like a host, not a guest.
• Eat before you go if possible. Drink sparingly.
• Set goals for the event.
• Have significant conversations with three people.
• Introduce at least two people to each other.
• Get introduced to specific people.
• Meet the speaker and make yourself memorable.
• Practice your openers and exit strategies.
• Prepare a spontaneous answer to: ?What?s new? How are you??
• Practice active listening. Listen more than you talk. (80/20 rule)
• Ask open-ended questions
• Give a value proposition answer to: ?What do you do?? (Ex: ?Clients come to me who need help with?.?)
• Use receptive body language: Smile, lean forward, give eye contact when you are listening.
• Discover a way to serve! Give a lead, a referral, or an idea.
• Exchange business cards with people you meet.
• Spend more time with new contacts and less time with friends and associates.
• Focus on remembering names.
• Remember to follow-up within 24 hours.
• Look for reasons to reconnect!
• Calendar your next email or get together.

Remember, networking events often bring together people who have common goals and professional experience. Let these commonalities help you connect with others - and push aside any social roadblocks.

And last but not least, don?t forget to foster your new connections. Potential prospects often fall by the wayside shortly after a networking event. Overcome this by reaching out to prospects at least once a month.

Follow these simple steps -  and soon people will be coming to you for savvy legal advice.