Veja como você pode adaptar seu estilo de comunicação para vários cenários de rede.

Adaptar seu estilo de comunicação em diferentes cenários de rede envolve flexibilidade e empatia. Em ambientes formais, seja claro e objetivo, focando em dados e resultados. Já em contextos informais, permita-se ser mais acessível e contar histórias que reflitam sua personalidade. Ajuste seu tom e abordagem conforme a audiência, seja ouvindo ativamente ou oferecendo insights valiosos. Isso cria conexões mais fortes e facilita a construção de relacionamentos duradouros em qualquer situação de networking.

Be genuinely interested in the other person and try to find commonalities whether business or personal topics. It’s a more relaxed setting and maybe everyone’s tired of talking about the expo that day, bring up something else.

Casual meetups are where connections are made organically. I’ve found that these settings allow for genuine conversations without the pressure of formalities. My approach? Always be genuinely curious. When I first started Markman Media, I attended many casual events where I simply asked people about their passions and projects. This not only broke the ice but also allowed me to learn about different industries, which later helped me tailor my services to diverse client needs. The key is to listen more than you speak, and when you do speak, ensure it’s authentic and from the heart.

Elevator pitches can be daunting, but they’re essential. Over the years, I’ve honed a concise way to introduce myself and Markman Media. I remember one instance when I had just 30 seconds to pitch to a potential investor at a tech event. I focused on the unique, holistic approach we take towards personal branding, combining professional development with wellness and spirituality. The pitch sparked interest, leading to a conversation that later blossomed into a fruitful partnership. My advice: Know your core message and deliver it with confidence and clarity.

Professionalism is key and that includes everything from what you’ve decided to wear to how you’re carrying yourself. Still be you but be effective for that type of networking event.

Formal events require a different approach. It’s not just about what you say, but how you present yourself. I recall attending a high-profile conference in the early days of Markman Media. The room was filled with influential leaders, and I knew I had to make a lasting impression. I paid attention to my attire, made sure I had business cards ready, and prepared a few key talking points that aligned with the event’s theme. But beyond the external presentation, I also ensured my body language conveyed confidence. Formal events are about creating a professional image that people will remember, so always be prepared and polished.

Explain why you’re reaching out without sounding like a unwarranted scam caller. Be true, be short, be direct, and be nice. Typically don’t send a super long message on the first one and/or if it’s not warranted.

Online networking has become a crucial part of business development. LinkedIn is my go-to platform, where I’ve built a network of like-minded professionals. I approach online networking by sharing valuable content and engaging in meaningful conversations. One of my most successful strategies has been to comment thoughtfully on posts from leaders in my field. This not only builds rapport but also showcases my expertise to a broader audience. I recommend being consistent and genuine in your online interactions; it’s about building relationships, not just collecting connections.

Follow-up messages are often where the magic happens. After meeting someone at an event or online, I always send a personalised follow-up within 24 hours. I make it a point to reference something specific from our conversation, which shows that I was genuinely interested. For example, after meeting a potential client at a conference, I followed up with an email mentioning a mutual interest in sustainable business practices. This personal touch led to a deeper conversation and eventually, a successful business relationship. Remember, the follow-up is not just a courtesy; it’s an opportunity to solidify the connection.

Finally, when communicating with diverse audiences, adaptability is key. Over the years, I’ve worked with clients from various cultural and professional backgrounds. I’ve learned that understanding the nuances of different audiences—whether it’s the formal tone preferred by some or the more casual approach of others—is crucial. For instance, when working with international clients, I make sure to be mindful of cultural differences, which has led to smoother collaborations. Tailoring your communication to suit your audience’s preferences shows respect and enhances the effectiveness of your message.