Click Here to Download the 5 Tips for Successful Outcomes at Networking Events
Home Care Marketing
Proper use of networking events is a topic we often discuss with our clients. Many people just don’t know how to get the most out of them, and mistakenly believe they are a waste of time. This couldn’t be further from the truth! As you are out in the field, marketing your business to the community, you MUST attend networking events. I always tell my clients to plan to attend one every single week. The challenge is getting the other attendees to take notice in your business, when faced with a room full of others competing for their time and attention.
In today’s episode of A Drink with “The Hurricane,” I explain the proper use of that 30-60 seconds you have to introduce yourself and your business…also known as an elevator pitch. People who network often, know that a good elevator pitch is as important as a solid handshake and nice business card. This is frequently how you make your first impression on someone, and you want to ensure it is a good and LASTING impression.
The most important piece of advice I can give you when it comes to this topic, is that you must rehearse your elevator pitch. It should be practiced regularly so it flows off your tongue. Practice it, out loud, in front of the mirror, when you are in the shower, when you are cooking dinner, and whenever you have a few uninterrupted minutes to focus. You should also practice if in front of others, so you can get some feedback. Friends and family are great, but so is your staff and Power Partners. Don’t forget to say it out loud a few times when you are driving to the event, so it is fresh in your mind.
When you are practicing, remember it’s not always what you say…but how you say it. Voice inflection, tone, volume, eye contact, and hand gestures are all part of the pitch. I work with a speaking coach, and he taught me to practice every single one of my presentations 7 times before I deliver it. The main reason for this is to work on the “mechanics” of the delivery. Again, it’s not always the words that get your point across. For example, if you are talking about the senior community, and you are passionate about it, touch your heart when you are making your point about keeping people safe. It’s little things like that. Do what feels right to you.
Lastly, remember to keep it short and to the point. We have all been to an event where no time limit is given on the intros, and so many people think that means it’s time to give a speech on their company’s services. WRONG! Look around the room when this happens, and notice how many people fidget in their seats, roll their eyes, or simply check out while that person is talking. This is not the way to make a great impression. Always stick to 30-60 seconds. It’s called an elevator pitch because you should be able to say it in the time it takes to ride an elevator.
Want more info on how to get the most out of networking events? CLICK HERE to download our top 5 tips. Have a great week!
**We are taking viewer questions for some upcoming episodes of A Drink with “The Hurricane.” Please feel free to submit your questions/suggestions to us at info@homecaremarketing.net.**