Networking - Be a Guide for the Networking Newbies

By Greg Peters

As an Ambassador for my local Chamber of Commerce, I'm expected to act as a host at any and all networking events. Helping out the newcomers to the Chamber falls squarely under this rubric. Once I got past the "never talk to strangers" attitude I learned as a little kid, I found that the events could not only be more profitable, but a heck of a lot more fun.

So, how can we best help that "new kid on the block"?

First, learn to identify her. If you've been around for a while, you'll probably recognize a new face. Chances are, they haven't gotten past their "stranger avoidance" programming. They might be a little late coming in. There's a better than even chance that they will be standing or seated by themselves. Especially watch out for the person sitting in the back of the room or in the corner. It's a good chance they are trying to avoid drawing attention to themselves. I think we all remember being that person, right?

If the event uses preprinted name tags, watch for the handwritten ones - often the sign of a newbie who doesn't know about preregistration. Our Chamber also gives out the occasional guest pass. The recipients of these have a particular name badge for which you can keep a lookout. You might also consider placing yourself at the disposal of the event organizers. You'll be helping them and the newcomers they point out to you - a twofer!

So what do you do when you locate one of these poor, unfortunate souls?

I know that some get a little nervous when dealing with new folks - worrying whether they will have enough to talk about. This is the easy part, really. If you've attended a similar event before, you can just start by giving them the lay of the land. What's the order of events? Where is the food? Where is the coat closet or the restrooms? The more of these questions you can answer for them in advance, the more comfortable they will be.

Then, just start asking questions: "How did you decide to come to the mixer?", "What are you looking for with this group?", "What was your favorite breakfast cereal as a kid?". Yes, I have asked that last one before and it never fails to strike up a fun conversation about the commonalities of our childhoods - a great way to get to know someone and a great start to a potentially rewarding relationship.

Don't forget. You are the expert networker. They may well be brand new to all of this and be feeling vastly out of their depth. If you make it an easy, fun, and valuable experience for them, they will remember - and since visibility is the first step in the networking path, that would seem like a very good place to start.

Copyright 2007, All Rights Reserved

Greg Peters is the owner and superhero-in-residence of Cyber Data Solutions. CDS has been helping website designers develop better web presence for their clients for more than a decade. We specialize in tools which help folks keep their websites up to date, fresh, and interesting. Visit us on the Web at www.cyberdatasolns.com to see how we can help your webmaster.

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