Networking Tip: Always bring something to take notes with.

I am constantly amazed at the number of people who show up at a networking event completely unprepared.  I was having a conversation with Joe.  An interesting person, he worked for a semiconductor company – in the automotive division.  The company was figuring out how automotive manufacturers could incorporate its technology in music systems, sound decks and all things entertainment (because focusing on driving isn’t entertainment enough?).  Specifically, Joe was looking for companies with innovative technology to potentially acquire. 

A couple months before, I happened to meet someone who was working on some innovative technology in that same area.  Perhaps it would benefit them to know each other?  I told Joe about this company and the guy I met, and that they ought to connect.  Joe told me he’d follow up with me.  I asked Joe if he wanted to write the guy’s name down (and maybe mine as well?).  Obvious he didn’t have a pen or a piece of paper (Did he just show up at this event for the food?), he said “That’s okay, I’ll remember it.”  No offense Joe, but I have a strong feeling that after you polish down that second drink, meet about 15 other people, and catch up with some friends, you’re not going to remember much.  I’ll do you a favor and write it down for you.  I pulled out my stash of NetNotes (Networking Note Cards), wrote down the info, and handed it back to Joe.  Now, he could choose to follow up…or not.  His call.

Some of you may be wondering why Joe just didn’t ask for my card?  Sometimes I don’t carry cards (maybe secretly I’m testing everyone to see if they’re prepared with pen and paper!).  I’m more interested in determining if I want your card than giving you mine.  Others may be saying “That would never happen to me, I have a great memory.”  So do I, but why chance it?  If you write it down, you can free up your mind to remember something else (like the name of the person you just met!).

The next time you go to a networking event (by the way, every day in life is a networking event – even those things that don’t appear at first glance to be a networking event – like grocery shopping, getting a pedicure/haircut, sitting on an airplane, standing in line…any line), be sure to be prepared.  Always have paper and pen with you. 

You can download your very own NetNotes.  Just click here!  Never be left without the ability to write!