Whenever I receive invitations to attend social events, I can always determine the kind of hosting organisation that authentically caters for the needs of it‘s members. This showcases true awareness and is something The SaVVy Club®does so well.
It made me think about how we, as a nation of networkers, interact from a local to a global level in social and professional settings.
Rapport is a fundamental aspect and stems from connecting with others, building business, expanding social and professional connections and generally raising mutual confidence levels. This then enables the setting to meet many truly inspiring and memorable people.
Interacting with a diverse range of people is crucial to developing communication skills which purposefully builds your business.
What drew me to these individuals could have been their vocal tones, personality, dress sense, their consciousness or holistic approach to life, and even the most fundamental of all – their heart warming smile. It is these facets that make each person unique.
Regardless of the type of organisation, it’s sector or industry you specialise in, do you find that you always associate with the same type of people because of their personalities? Or do you feel more comfortable with people at the same level as yourself which could make you ignore others?
In networking, which is a world within itself, that would be seen as judging a book by its cover or, put even more plainly, shooting yourself in the foot!
Have you ever done this and then later found out that a particular person was a potential key contact to your getting your dream contract or work assignment?
At times, this kind of experience can be embarrassing, hurtful and even prove to be a death knell to your business as well as your own reputation. You will continually lose out on moving your business forward, hitting your targets, realising your goals and crediting your bank account.
One thing I can strongly advise: always be open to all possibilities in communications building and networking. You never know who is connected to whom and how deep their relationship goes.
Second tier networking involves high level professional introductions that includes the Top 3 Strategies of business building and multiples streams of income such as:
1. Strong Associations
2. Qualified Referrals
3. Joint Ventures
On a personal note, all 3 of those strategies would not have been implemented if:
1. I didn’t know what was happening in my professional and social circles;
2. I didn’t take the time to find out what my contacts wanted;
3. I hadn’t asked the right questions to realise what was also being offered.
So, how much do you know of what’s happening right under your nose?
How do other people within your circle of influence conduct their business?
What did they do that made them become important to you?
Below are the Top Tip 5 Reflective Questions you should consider before committing to any kind of action:
1. What is it about someone that makes you remember them?
2. Why would you want to connect more fully with that person?
3. Do you have a wish or ambition that they could help you achieve?
4. When did you realise that they could feature in your networking life?
5. What first steps do you need to take to make sure that you connect with this
person on a larger and mutually productive scale?
No matter how experienced or inexperienced you are at networking, there is always room for improvement to develop your rapport and people connection skills. All of the above and more relates to your experiences with others and how you make people feel. That way, they’ll want to engage and commit more of their quality time to you.
Using rapport to achieve someone’s dreams and to fulfil your purpose can be extremely gratifying, especially when you receive feedback that lifts your spirit and makes your day. I’ve communicated and networked with thousands of corporate bodies, business owners, entrepreneurs and start-up businesses and so rapport has become second nature.
Always Remember: in business time is money so communicate, rapport authentically and network wisely. When you do you’ll be emotionally, spiritually and financially rewarded.
Guest blogger: Valerie Lothian, Focusivity – Positive Energy Stress Management http://www.Focusivity.co.uk
The SaVVy Club®– www.savvyclub.co.uk – As London’s most exclusive social events club, our members tend to work in senior management and professional capacities.
London Social Events Blog -The SaVVy Club 