Keys to Effective Networking

We've all heard the old adage, "It's not what you know, it's who you know." And while we'd all hope that what you know does make some difference, there's no denying that building relationships with others within the community certainly doesn't hurt.

The Lexington PowerCore Team, a business referral network, offers the following tips for effective networking:

• Dress for the occasion. Make sure your outfit is appropriate for the event and freshly pressed. Wear something that makes you feel attractive.

• Build rapport with people. Find out about the other person: what business they're in, outside interests, who they know at the meeting. Establish a common ground.

• Have a plan of action. Look around the room and decide who you want to focus on. Start with smaller groups or individuals. Use your time effectively. An opportunity missed now may never come again.

• Come prepared. Spend this time meeting people you don't know and letting them get to know you too. Reconnect quickly with friends and then move on. Your purpose for attending a networking even is to increase the number of people who know you.

• Listen, listen, listen. At least 60 percent of your time should be spent listening to what the other person has to say. Make mental notes and jot down important data so that you can follow through.

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