Post Blog: The art of networking
Face-to-face networking at industry events is one of the best ways to establish relationships from which business may well flow, particularly in the insurance world.
Networking opportunities are frequently missed because delegates either don't know how to overcome their worries about talking to strangers, or go into high-powered selling-mode.
Walking into a room full of strangers is a daunting prospect even for the most experienced of insurance professionals. Delegates know they have to make introductions, make new contacts and network, yet the sight of unknown faces in a room already arranged into pairs and groups can make you want to turn round, huddle in a corner and spend time tweeting on your Blackberry.
Preparation is the key to networking successfully at an event. Sending delegates to an industry conference, especially overseas, is a considerable expense. The cost is even higher for firms or entities that set-up stalls or host a reception.
The outlay is an investment and should be repaid by the additional work that is generated. Wafting around hoping to bump into someone significant, or talking to friends and contacts you already know, isn't going to cut it. To ensure the most is made of the opportunity, conference attendees need a plan.
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