March 1, 5:30 am
Meet, greet, grip, and grin. Ugh.
As a business owner, I’m responsible for getting out there and putting a “face” on the business. Not that my face is fit for the cover of GQ, but when it’s time to meet, greet, grip, and grin, I usually would rather not.
What’s weird is that while at these events (such as a Business After Hours) I ususally meet a few interesting folks that I end up getting to know well and like. But, as an introvert by nature, its more enjoyable to have just one or two interesting conversations. So that’s what I do.
My goal when I attend these functions is to meet and get to know two people whom I’ve not met before. It’s that simple. If I can do that, I consider my venture a success.
That style works for me, but there are those would cringe at this approach. Do a little search for ‘how to work a room,’ and I’ll bet 95% of what you find would advice against what I do. That’s okay — after 18 years in business, I have yet to get zapped by the networking police.
For those who’d like a compilation of good opinions and perspectives on networking, check out this free e-book I came across by Bonnie Lowe. With a title like Networkaholics Revealed! True Confessions From People Who Networked Their Way to Success, one is bound to find at least ONE good idea in it.
I chose two chapters. :-)
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Addendum:
See my follow up post on this topic
Filed in Business, Opinion, Motivation, Management, Sales, Leadership, Selling
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