NEW START // ISSUE 6 // 63

‘DON’T FORGET TO FOLLOW UP. E-MAIL YOUR POTENTIAL CONTACTS OR CALL THEM AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. LACK OF FOLLOW UP IS SAID TO BE ONE OF THE BIGGEST REASONS FOR MISSED CAREER OPPORTUNITIES.’

embarrassing situation of confusing two people and helps you to follow up on interesting meetings.

DON’T be too pushy. Direct selling and networking are two very different things. Try to talk about your business confidently but don’t brag or push your product or service to fervently, as this can turn people off.

DO come prepared. Speak about yourself and your work confidently. Prepare a short elevator pitch that succinctly describes your business and the benefits of your products or services. Articulating yourself well help others to understand your business and what you are looking for.

DON’T forget to follow up. E-mail your potential contacts or call them as quickly as possible. Lack of follow up is said to be one of the biggest reasons for missed career opportunities as any delay conveys disinterest. Studies have shown it’s harder to reconnect if you do not follow-up within three days.

‘DO MEET NEW PEOPLE. CIRCULATE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE AT EVENTS AND SEMINARS. GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE AND INTRODUCE YOURSELF TO AS MANY NEW PEOPLE AS POSSIBLE.’