Networking is the lifeline to the success of our business.
The more people you know, the better chance you have of getting new business. That being said, I go to every networking event I can. I shake hands, pass my card around and give my 30 second elevator speech to anyone that will listen.
My "professional opinion" -those in attendance don't care about me. Sure they appear wide eyed and friendly when you mention you may have a friend or family member that can benefit from their service. 99% of the time they will converse just enough to see if they can benefit from you. Once they conclude NO, they move onto the next "networker."
I came up with two great ideas that enable me to network in a less threatening manner;
1) I carry a money clip. Don't you hate it when you're in line behind someone with a money clip? They take 5 minutes to remove the rubber band, and then they have to sort through their driver's license, birth certificate, insurance card just to get to the cash. Then they flip through their dollar bills (Money Clip 101: wrap one $20 or $100 bill around dollar bills for a full look). By the time they have the money ready, the line has built up and the cashier fell asleep.
What does this have anything to do with ME? (I know your thinking that at this point)
I organize my money clip in a way that my business cards are batting first. By this I mean; I immediately remove my business cards (from money clip) and place them on the counter by the cash register. Allowing everyone around to see the big RE/MAX Logo. I then take my time to gather the necessary cash and proceed with my purchase. I cannot tell you how many times; a customer/employee has glanced at my card and struck up a Real Estate related conversation.
What a great time to say, "Please take my card, if nothing else, I won't hold up the line next time!"
Hopefully the conversation isn't, "oh my sister is a real estate agent." If it is, at least you've learned not to go back to that store!
2) My next alternative networking idea is not gender specific. I hate to stereotype, but I haven't seen too many women carrying money clips these days! Tip number 2; Carry spare change in your pocket. Again this networking tip will take place at or around the cash register.
As customers; we strongly dislike (hate is too harsh of a word) getting 98 cents back when our purchase comes to 12 dollars & 2 cents. Although our parents always said, "coins are the same as cash, if you don't want the quarters, give them to me."
After my purchase, I linger around the cash register. If the next customer doesn't have exact change, I will reach into my pocket and provide them with the exact change needed. You are probably thinking to yourself, big deal; you wouldn't have to spend more then 99 cents. True, but it's the thought and the convenience that people appreciate. No one wants the change rattling around in their pocket all day.
My experience in helping people pay with exact change has been remarkable. It strikes up a conversation and you have provided an item of value to them. It is a great time to say,
"Aside from giving away spare change, I help people save/make money when buying or selling Real Estate. Here's my card, call me if I can ever be of service to you." (Or give me my change back)
Make it a Great Day!
Comments(4)