by Richard Avdoian
Networking at various business, civic and charitable events can be time-consuming yet necessary to meet, establish and enhance business relationships with prospective clients, vendors and supportive business resources.
Time is limited, so you need to use it wisely. To do so, you need to be able to identify, avoid and know how to handle the askaholics and leeches who frequent the same events. They simply do not get it or have no respect for your time. They are takers and have no clue or don’t care that they are.
One of the most overused business words is “synergy,” and it is the hook word often used when someone wants to meet for coffee or lunch to get free consultation, promote his services or asked to be introduced to someone.
So before you agree to meet or make an introduction, be cautious and know how to handle both the leeches and the askaholics. Here are a few tips.
I have a few questions. Can we meet for drinks or lunch?
Tip: Take the lead and ask candidly what her expectations are and set a strict time limit. If the expectation is to learn more about your businesses, that’s fine, but if you get the sense that it is a trap to get free business advice, set her straight from the onset. If you offer a free consultation, fine; otherwise suggest that she consider scheduling a formal business meeting. The decision is hers.
Can I tag along at the next networking event?
It is not uncommon for a business owner or professional to ask to accompany you to a business or civic event for the first time. You agree to meet at the event and intend to introduce him to a few individuals before leaving him on his own to network. This may work with most respectful individuals but not leeches. They tend to never leave your side and intrude in all your interactions with friends and prospects.
These individuals often assume from that point that it is OK to seek you out at other events and draft off your interactions.
Tip: Be clear from the moment you agree that you will introduce him to a few random people and from that point he is on his own. If at future events he attempts to cling to you like a leech, you need to firmly set limits. Business owners and professionals worthy of maintaining a relationship with will understand and be respectful; if not, cut them free.
Can you give me a warm introduction to …?
With the exposition of social media, it takes no effort to find out who’s connected in the business world. There are bold individuals who will seek you out specifically to ask to be introduced to someone in your network. They are shameless and think they can or deserve to intrude on your connections. You know virtually little if anything about the person requesting the introduction. An introduction is a big deal and reflects on your reputation and is a far bigger deal than meeting for a drink or lunch. You have taken time to develop and nurture your professional relationships and should guard them well.
Tip: These individuals are on a mission and have an agenda. Be candid; ask what her intention is and whether she previously met or corresponded with the desired individual. If you are inclined, suggest (without a guarantee of an introduction) that you meet at a later date to learn more about her. Then excuse yourself.
You will likely meet these individuals from time to time; it’s unavoidable. Having a game play for handling them will save you valuable time and energy and minimize missed opportunities to meet ideal prospects.
Richard Avdoian is president/CEO of the Midwest Business Institute Inc., a business consulting and training firm. For information about training and seminars, contact Richard at 618-972-8588 or Richard@RichardAvdoian.com.
Submitted 8 years 327 days ago