There are tons of articles that talk about how to introduce yourself at a networking meeting however I think I might be able to bring a different perspective to the subject.
Here’s why:
- I run a networking group of over 400 people and during the 9 years the group has been in existence I have listened to literally thousands of introductions.
- I launched my other business (Adrian Miller Sales Training) 30 years ago and have grown it through my own networking endeavors.
- I’m a sales trainer and am very attuned to people’s facial expressions and body language and observe both very keenly when people are doing their intros.
- I understand the basic sales techniques that must be deployed when making an introduction.
Let’s begin with what doesn’t work:
- Speaking in a monotone and voice devoid of energy enthusiasm and passion
- Going into too much detail about what you do
- Speaking primarily about accomplishments that are 5, 10 and even 15 years old
- Making it sound like you do “everything”
- Providing your email or web addresses in your introduction
- Being too vague and confusing (Ask yourself – will people “get it?”!)
Here’s what will get you noticed and prompt people to want to reach out and speak with you in more detail:
- Speak your introduction with power and persuasiveness. Smile and be friendly
- Provide your name and your company name
- Give one or two lines about what you do for your clients (ex. I help my clients’ to________ or My clients tell me that I’ve been able to help them to ____________ HINT-you want to provide information that makes people see YOU as a “solutions-provider”)
- Provide information about who is in your sweet spot (clients, referral sources) and be as specific as possible
- If possible, include a call to action and help people understand how they can help you!
And that’s it!
Short and sweet. I guarantee that you will get better results from your networking endeavors once you create a compelling and persuasive networking introduction.
Need help? Connect with me at amiller@adrianmiller.com.