BNI Founder Dr. Ivan Misner 10 commandments of networking a mixer

Do you wonder how to make more out of networking mixers? Don't we all. NMSMALLBIZ will soon be hosting a monthly networking event and thought this may help us or anyone attending

BNI is the most widely known networking group. I decided to break down the founder of the organizations 10 commandments for networking at a mixer:

1. Have networking tools with you at all times: cards, name badge, promotional items and other cards from your referral network.

2. Set a goal of number of people your going to meet. Often we only look at time. Focus on meeting 8 new possible referral partners, this is a better goal than focusing on a staying for only one hour.

3. Act like a host, not a guest. Guests sit back and relax. A host will introduce people who may benefit from knowing each other. This is pretty easy, introduce a realtor to mortgage broker. 

4. Listen and ask questions. Be an interviewer. If you're already thinking of what your going to say next maybe you're not listening.  For some a great conversation starters try Bob Burg's "Endless Referrals." He has great questions and tips to keep the conversation going.

5. Don’t try and close a deal. It’s about relationships. Nobody goes to a networking event to buy. They go looking for other referral partners and solutions to their current problems. Be a problem solver or a partner.

6. Give referrals whenever possible. Think of your current networkers problems and look for people to help. Or meet someone and discover their needs and keep them in mind as you meet new people.

7. Exchange business cards. This is a given. Try this, ask for two. One to keep and one for possible referral opportunities. 

8. Manage your time efficiently. Don't spend your time with people you know or are comfortable with. Make the most of this time by making new contacts.

9. Write notes on backs of cards recording anything useful. This is an old trick and goes back to commandment number 4, write what you learn.

10. Follow-up. This is obvious but few do it. There is no reason to meet people if you are not going to follow-up. Meet them for coffee or call them and say hello.

I hope this helps with networking at your events. Please repost if you found this helpful.


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