Will Hardison

2 Minute Networking

While out networking, do you get tired of Chatty Cathy who throws up all over you about their business for 15 minutes? Have you ever stopped to think about how much that person could be costing you in positive connections that could very well lead to sales?

Something to think about, limit your time while networking to 3 minutes per person. That allows you to meet 20 new people an hour. 3 times a week, you just met 60 new people. How long would it take you to get the attention of 60 people a week by cold calling?

*A side note, take into consideration the amount of people at the event. If there are 10 people at the event, obviously you’ll want to spend more time with each person than if there was 100 people in the room. Don’t get caught up in conversations with people that you already know. Spend 75% of your networking time with people who you don’t already know.

Ok, back to the topic. Here is how to handle the situation of only spending 2-3 minutes per person.

1. Approach your prospect, more than likely they’ll have a nametag on, and say their name followed by the question “Tell me about your business/job and who you are looking to meet?”
2. They’ll rattle off their 30 – 60 second commercial and then ask you in return “What is it that you do?”
3. You give them your polished 30 – 60 second commercial and now you are two minutes deep into the conversation. (This is where it can get out of hand)
4. Now you have to make a decision. Is this someone worth getting to know? Are they a good strategic partner? Are they going to start selling their services to you? This is where you either say, “Hey Mr. Networker is was a pleasure meeting you this morning. I hope you make some good connections this morning. I’ve got a few more people to meet.” OR you say “Hey Mr. Networker is was nice meeting you this morning, sounds like we could possibly be good strategic partners. If it makes sense to you too, why don’t we set up a time to get together for a one-to-one meeting.”

There is no need to get into a 15-minute conversation during the event about that person’s business, how they started, where they worked before, where they grew up, and where they went to high school. During the networking event, that is all irrelevant. You’re there to make the most of your time and meet as many connections as possible.

Tags: 2 minute networking, cold calling, elevator pitch, Networking