Networking: Open With Your Gambit

Does the thought of a networking mixer make you want to stick a fork in your eye?

Then I have some bad news - in-person networking events are coming back.

But the good news? Here are two tips that will make it easy for you to network like a rockstar.

Tip #1) Prepare a Gambit

No one enjoys cold self-introductions. They can be sooo awkward.

Gambits are short, light, fun, and breezy opening statements or questions that feel spontaneous and leave the recipient feeling good.

Using a Gambit takes the awkwardness out of the hardest part of networking – introducing yourself to strangers – because by the time you get to introductions, you’ve already made a connection.

Gambits differentiate you and build rapport in one fell swoop.

One easy, basic Gambit is a sincere compliment - “Cool shoes!” is a favorite of mine. And I also find it useful to have one or two options in my back pocket for situations where a compliment may not be the best way to open a conversation.

I’ve discovered my best Gambits just by being myself, by being curious, and by listening.

Tip #2) Save deep conversations for your next meeting.

Generally, at a mixer, I spend about 10 minutes getting to know someone before its time to move on.

Here’s a bonus tip: As your conversation is winding down, ask your fellow networker, “Who do you think should I meet next?”

There are a few reasons that this works so well:

• People like to share their opinion.

• They also appreciate a gentle cue that the time has come to move on.

• This question shows that you’re willing to be vulnerable and put yourself in their hands.

• It’s not unusual for them to walk me over and introduce me in a way that gets to the heart of the business conversation.

• Plus, I meet lots of interesting people that I may not have met otherwise!

There’s so much more to cover on this topic, so as things continue to open back up, I’ll keep sharing #sellwell #networking #tips