IMPROVING COMMUNICATION THROUGH IN PERSON NETWORKING


A couple of nights ago I decided to Google http://www.google.com/ my name to see where my articles and comments are showing up with search engines. I had delved back into pages four or five pages in a long time because I figured most people wouldn’t go there anyway. Yet, it was good resource for me to see who was publishing my free articles.

About page five, there was website where I had commented on a well-known networker’s site. She had outlined great steps for networking at an event. However, I commented that she had missed the last step. Thus I stated I felt it was to call the person up and set up a face-to-face meeting, perhaps over a cup of coffee.

Here reply, “Kathy, good observation, however I feel that is a ‘waste of time’ now we use social media for the next step.” It was late at night and I knew I was irritated so decided to let it go. Obviously, I haven’t since I am writing this blog.

For the next two days I was out and about at meetings that I had set up solely for the purpose of networking. At each stop, now keep in mind these were all different age groups, I asked the question, “How important do you think face-to-face first meetings are to build rapport with a person? Can the same thing be accomplished with social media without meeting in person?”

What was fascinating was the look on their faces? Since they knew I taught networking, they looked at me like that was one of the craziest things I have ever asked. The answer, 100 percent, was “No, sitting down with a person is where you really learn about a person.”

My hunch was right in my small survey. Social media is too superficial and you cannot hear the tone of their voice or see their body language. You only have words. Yes, I know video is being used to a great extent in social media, however, as we all know, that can be edited at any given point.

As a professional, I guard my recommendations closely. I need to know if the person is really who they say they are. A recent article in a Wharton School of Business newsletter http://www.tiny.cc/b6nlk illustrates how people are providing untruths in their resumes and social media profiles.

This week, I had two lunches and coffee with people that were set up for the expressed purpose of getting to know the individuals better. Ideas flowed and we figured out ways we can help each other. Interestingly, we have been connected on social media and occasionally write on each other’s LinkedIn wall http://www.linkedin/.com or comment on Face Book http://www.facebook.com/

However, it wasn’t until we sat down in a relaxed atmosphere were we able to share our recent experiences, challenge each other and truly connect. Just for the record, any of these people I met with this week, I would be happy to recommend. I am convinced they love what they do. Their body language was congruent with what they were saying. Nothing better than recommending a person that truly enjoys his/her life’s work.

What is your opinion of in-person versus social media networking? I welcome your comments.

SPEED NETWORKING

Last night an announcement came up on a LinkedIn group http://www.LinkedIn.com about the time and date of “Latest and creative approach of building your network- Speed Networking”. Good thing I had overnight to think about this before I wrote this blog—I’m calmer now.

Now we are speeding up our personal interaction. In my mind/world, I think that is really sad. With technology, gobbling up more and more time the need for inter-personal communication is growing. Then we come up with an event that makes sure we do not have time to really connect with a person.

It is my personal belief that if you go to a networking event (Look for a place will you learn or have fun), you should not plan to meet more than three people. Networking is about building relationships. It is my experience people are really bad about following up with three people they have met. Imagine trying to follow-up with 20 or more.

My recommendation:

1. Find an event will you will learn or have fun.
2. Plan to meet three people.
3. Start conversations with a question:

What great thing happened to you recently?

Great piece of jewelry does it have a story behind it?

Come up with one that fits your personality…key is listen to the answer so you can ask the next question.

Send a handwritten note to the people you met and include your contact card (formerly called business) In my mind, that is how you start building a relationship.

PS Be sure to put the person’s contact information into your home contact program – One never knows when you will need the information about people you have met and developed a relationship.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

If you haven’t joined the world of social networking, I would like to suggest that you seriously consider it. We do not know where this all going, yet I can already see using Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter together I am getting my name out there and new opportunities are surfacing.

NETWORKING - TAKE TIME OUT TO MAKE PHONE CALLS TO FRIENDS

It had been a busy day. Sprinkled among computer issues, I was taking care of emails and getting some writing done. Spent some time on Twitter.
http://www.twitter.com/Kathycondon

I have reached 800 followers on Twitter. Checked on my Twitter rank quality. I am ranked 98.8 out of a possible 100. Smiling about the rank. Of course, now I want to be ranked at 100.

At the end of the day, I called my friend Gayle Beacock, Vice President of Beacock Music. http://www.beacockmusic.com It was so good to be curled up on the sofa and get caught up on what is happening in her world. Unlike many retailers, Beacock Music is flourishing. It seems people are turning to music in this unusual time.

Our conversation led to the discussion of what makes a good speaker and trainer. She had heard me speak many times. She said “Kathy, you actually do the things your suggest people implement into their lives. You are believable because you do it.”

Gayle is speaking at more and more international and national music conferences. In fact, I’m not sure there is any conference Gayle attends now that she is not asked to speak. We talked about the “why” she is received enthusiastically. The more we talked, it became evident to us that it is because she actually does what she was speaking and training. She knows and trains their employees on great customer service on a daily basis.

Our conclusion, if you want to be real, authentic, or believable—whatever word you want to use—it appears to be very important that you actually work in the field. You can make your points with real stories events that unfold every day in your world.

By the way, I hung up the phone and smiled. Nothing like a conversation with a friend that stretches your thinking. Remember true friends know you well and will share with you suggestions that will help you be an even better person.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

If you need activity to save your miles on your airline reward systems, go to their shopping mall. Buy anything through their mall and it is considered activity on your mileage account.

IT DOESN’T HURT TO ASK

Do you ask for help when you need it?

Just got done reading about a blogger who was frustrated with Twitter’s lack of response when he had an issue---a glitch prevented him from writing tweets to his followers. It wasn’t until he asked a man who was well- known in the Twitter Circle to help him that his issue got resolved.

There is nothing better than being able to help a person. We go about our days handling our own business and do not have a clue someone might need help. There are mind readers, yet, most of us do not happen to have such a talent.

This week I had the opportunity to have a couple of one-on-one coffee dates. My goal was to connect. As we talked, ideas started flowing and opportunities surfaced on both sides for cooperation and growth. I walked away from these meetings smiling for my energy was high and was pleased to take away new learnings.

Back in my office, I wrote down some of the “good ideas”. I sent off a note to one of people I had met with this week. I asked for help in clarifying something I was considering putting into a new seminar. Soon there was a reply and the sentence, “Kathy, thanks for asking me to help”.

Instead of thinking you are infringing on people by asking for help, think of it as a way of honoring another person. You are honoring them by seeking their advice, counsel, or physical help. My bet is that will be more than happy to help you out……just ask.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Working on your taxes? Here is a link that will help you determine the value of goods you have donated. http://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/itsdeductible/index.jsp

TIME TO GET BACK INTO CAREER PRODUCTIVITY MODE

The suitcases are unpacked. Most of the Belgium chocolate delivered to grateful friends. Groceries have been brought in and the house is cleaned. Time to get the focus on plans for 2009.

Before I left on my three-week journey, I took twelve folders and wrote each month on them. Things that I absolutely want to do, have found their way into one of the folders. When I opened up January, I smiled for there were reminders of things to do that I might have forgotten. Looks like this is going to work great for me.

Feeling a bit overwhelmed at the moment. I have opened a whole new world by getting active in "social networking". As one Tweeter said "information overload." So obviously one of the keys to productivity this year is managing my time. Social networking is addictive -- and you are never done.

Starting to work on my networking book and have already decided not to write much about "social networking". Technology is changing rapidly. The book would be outdated before it is even printed.

The handwritten thank you note waiting for me in my mail brought a smile to my face--nothing like the personal note.


BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

If you want new business tips that works, read a book written by Og Mandino. Delightful way to learn "little things" that make a difference.

I KNEW I WAS IN BELGIUM WHEN CHOCOLATE WAS SERVED FOR BREAKAST

On December 24, I started my journey to visit my daughter in Belgium at 2:30 a.m. The taxi picked me up at 3:30 a.m. with chains for the treacherous drive to the airport. With snow falling hard, I was relieved it was an early morning flight. We took off on time and arrived in Seattle to even heavier snow.

My next flight was again on time. Once on the runway, you could feel the tension. All of us knew that the pilot had his hands full. The runway appeared to be covered with snow and ice.

Once airborne, the pilot announced, "A special Christmas present from the control tower. We are the last flight out for at least the next two hours." Had we not gotten off then, I would have missed my connection in New York City and would not have arrived at my daughter's for Christmas Day.

I boarded the American Airlines plane and realized my use of miles for a first-class seat were well spent. This plane had seats that fully reclined so I could stretch out to sleep. After a delicious meal, I pulled up the quilt-like blanket and settled down to sleep.

Since I had asked for the "express breakfast" I was awaken 45 minutes before we were to land. The flight attendant served me orange juice, fruit and a croissant. Once I had finished, he handed me a plate of dark Belgium chocolate.

Perfect trip--well almost. It seems my luggage was still in Seattle and would not arrive until late afternoon the following day. My daughter was waiting for me at the gate-It was 8:30 a.m. Nothing like a hug from your daughter on Christmas morning.

BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TIP:

Whenever you travel, make sure you put the chargers and overseas adapters for your computer and cell phone in your carry-on. You never know if your luggage will arrive with you. If you are at JFK airport, Samsung has great stations for charging your devices. There are comfortable chairs surrounding each station and it is FREE.