Networking after a presentation is an excellent way to make connections. You’ve buttered your audience up with your message, now it’s time to solidify the relationship with networking. This kind of connection is also unique in the sense that you don’t have to pitch anything; your PowerPoint has already introduced you. How can you cultivate relationships that will matter?
The Goal
Throw out any previous notion of what you believe networking means. The goal is to help other people through your services, not the other way around. It’s essentially an in-person expansion pack from your presentation.
Stick Around
Be available to talk, both by your presence and your physical cues. Smile, make eye contact, and don’t check your phone. Networking is kin to speed dating or small talk at a party; don’t arrive with a negative attitude and embrace the fact that the talk won’t always be profound.
Create a Mission
Reward yourself after reaching a certain number of people to talk with or business cards shared. Giving yourself a goal might push you to reach out to more people, especially if you are terrified and introverted.
Be a Listener
The most successful networkers don’t command a conversation; they actively listen, ask the right questions, and make the other person feel special. Have you ever struck up a conversation with someone who only wanted to talk about themselves and pitch all of the products they’ve ever thought up? Don’t be that person.
Avoid a Sales Pitch
As a follow up to “be a listener,” also ensure that you avoid anything that smacks of a sales pitch during your networking conversations. This makes the listener feel like you want something from them versus wanting to strike up a business relationship or offer your help, as per the original goal.
Follow Up
You make a promise when you receive a business card or an email address. The promise is that you 
won’t “drop the ball” on the relationship you’ve formed. The maximum amount of time to get in touch with someone after networking is 48 hours. Use a social network like LinkedIn, send them an email, or even leave them a message on the phone. Make sure to remind them who you are and what was discussed, and avoid anything pitch-y in the follow-up.
“Many believe effective networking is done face-to-face, building a rapport with someone by looking at them in the eye, leading to a solid connection and foundational trust.” – Raymond Arroyo
Think of connections you make while networking less like cold call leads, and more like friends. It’s a richer interaction than simply introducing yourself and delivering an elevator pitch; networking can create the connections you need to (maybe) become a billionaire in six months.
Question: Do you have a networking game plan?
