Ignite Speed Networking conducted another event in Richmond on Friday, September 16th. It was a business function, without a doubt. And yet, it was a lot of fun!
Speed Networking, if you didn’t know, is a lot like speed dating. At the start, you are given a list of table numbers that you will attend. At each table there are a handful of other business folks, and a small hourglass/timer like you see in a board game. When the folks from ISN ring the big cowbell, the person with the timer flips it, and gives their “elevator speech”. When the time’s up, they pass it along to the next. Everyone at the table has time to present, exchange business cards, and chat for a minute or two. Then, the cowbell rings again, and it’s on to the next table on your list.
It’s great exposure, and it’s a fun way to do it! If you enjoy networking (or even if you don’t!), next time you hear of one in your area, I suggest you jump all over it.
Here are some lessons learned from the event:
- Bring plenty of business cards.
- Plan on spending the next few days writing followup emails and making followup calls.
- PRACTICE your presentation before you go. You will have no more than 60 seconds…make it count! Rambling, unclear presentations are boring.
- Make it FUN so you STAND OUT (one of the themes of Pink Minnow!). Have a cute hook, a visual, or something to make you more memorable.
- Don’t be intimidated by competition! Do what YOU do best. Even your competitors could become potential referral sources, if they have certain types of customers that they prefer not to engage.
- Follow-up. It’s a must.
I hope to see you at the next event!
This was a great event – we’ll be back to crush our own world record in Feb., 2012… 2-10-12… mark your calendars! Thanks to Pink Minnow & Matt Sanner for the post & wonderful tips!