Get Out There and Network

Summer is here! For many of us, summer means a slow down in business. If that’s the case for your business, take advantage of networking opportunities and hone your networking skills.

For many of us, networking is sheer torture! 93% of all people consider themselves shy. Consider the reasons why we don’t like networking:

• Mother always told us, “Don’t talk to strangers!”
• We haven’t been formally introduced.
• We don’t want to appear too pushy.
• We don’t want to risk rejection.

If you are a wallflower at networking events and believe that good things come to those who wait, you may be waiting a very long time. The only thing that comes to those who wait is gray hair! If you prepare ahead of time, you can become an expert networker.

• Practice your 30-second elevator speech in front of the mirror.
• Prepare icebreaker questions ahead of time.
• Think about what you have in common with other attendees.
• Consider joining the planning or greeting committee. It will enable you to act like a host instead of a guest.

Networking is a learned skill that you can master. Start by reading some of the many books that have been published on the subject. Observe others who seem to have mastered the skill. Practice, practice and practice some more. Then go out and have fun.

Networking is a great way to meet potential customers, find new referral sources and make new friends.

IRS Circular 230 Disclosure

Pursuant to U.S. Treasury Department Regulations, we are now required to advise you that any federal tax advice contained in this communication, including attachments and enclosures, is not intended by the Sender or Sandra G Johnson, CPA, P.C. to constitute a covered opinion pursuant to regulation section 10.35 or to be used for the purpose of (i) avoiding tax-related penalties under Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party any tax-related matters addressed herein.