The Process has to start somewhere and it starts here, with Greet.  Simple, right? Well, in some cases it gets over complicated.  I truly believe that by breaking down The Process, we can look at this element in all of its simplicity:  Find someone and say hello.  At the same time, what’s involved with that? Finding someone means having the courage to approach a stranger or a group.  Saying hello means speaking and being able to articulate an introduction.

Again, this can and should be simple. Prepare for approaching a stranger or group by mentally preparing with selecting a Networking Play. Yes, if nerves are causing angst, pick a systematic way to proceed and make it a process.  Same goes for the introduction: “Hello, I’m [insert your name here].  How are you?” will do nicely (I don’t believe in the 30, 15, or even 10 second intro’s at this point).  Lastly, the physical… smile, eye contact, and firm handshake.

The thing about this is that whole “stranger” or “group” part can really mess with the mind when it shouldn’t.  We’re all at events for the same reason: to meet each other.  So why not dive in?  It’s all part of The Process.

This is all a part of the Authentic Networking System. Learn more about Authentic Networking at the Professional Networking Workshop on Nov 6th. If you are attending a networking event in the next week, these workshops provide networking practice, information, and resources. Learn and reinforce concepts, ideas, and processes that make networking more comfortable and effective. Workshop Info

If you missed earlier posts, or just want to see the entire Authentic Networking System all laid out, start to finish, download the printable PDF HERE.