No one wants to be quickly forgotten, especially after a networking event, but being memorable is essential for every entrepreneur. Citing a common interest, developing a signature style and finding ways to follow up are just the beginning of building a strong and lasting impression.
The next time you are at an event where you want people to walk away with you (and your business) firmly rooted in memory, try these techniques:
1. Identify a commonality. People will trust you and relate to you if they feel you share a common bond; whether it’s that you’re from the same hometown, went to the same school or even just that you both like dogs or the color orange.
2. Pique their interest. Many of us kill conversations in the first 10 seconds. When someone asks the inevitable question: “What do you do?” find an interesting way to tell them, in order to spark their curiosity and make them want to know more.
3. Develop a signature style. Sometimes your wardrobe can help you stand out: Madeleine Albright’s brooches, Tucker Carlson’s bowties and Steve Jobs’ black turtlenecks all helped them distinguish themselves.
4. Ask a lot of questions. It may sound counterintuitive, but asking a lot of questions can actually make you far more memorable to others, as people love to talk about themselves.
5. Find a reason to follow up. If you’d like to turn a quick meeting into a long-lasting relationship, make a point of finding a way to continue the conversation: aside of getting their contact information, identify areas that are ripe for follow-up.
Making a strong and lasting impression is critical to your business success. By following these techniques, you can be sure people will take note.
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