Business Networking Course

Course Content

Unlike off-the-peg networking training, this course is tailored, on the day, to reflect the needs of each delegate.

We will include many of the exercises listed below, and any additional material that the trainers feel is relevant.

Introduction

Our approach is to build on the strengths and sucesses our delegates already have.

It is easier to develop what you already have than to gain skills that do not come easily.

Being yourself is the most effective tool for business networking and building relationships.

We will also look at what you like most about the art of networking and what you like least.

What Gets in the Way?

Find out what gets in the way of people being more effective networkers.

What are the pitfalls? How do you get wrong-footed? Why do we feel so awkward?

Face-to-Face

Find out how communication works.

What happens when communication is done well?

What happens when communication is done poorly?

Power of the Listener

A powerful illustration of how body language can communicate more than words during face-to-face communication.

Learn to listen actively rather than just waiting for your turn to speak.

Assumptions

It is impossible not to make assumptions.

We make things up using our previous experience and then act as though they are true.

How can we use assumptions to open a conversation, find common ground or clear up misunderstandings?

Other People's Eyes

There is real skill in being able to see the world from someone else's point of view.

Working with the idea that everyone sees the world differently, we can find ways to develop deeper relationships.

Meeting and Greeting

How can you make the first move and make sure that you get that business card?

In networking situations, it is important that you honour your own style.

We will look at how you can make your style work for you.

Introducing Yourself

How do you introduce yourself to a complete stranger?

Here, we demonstrate how physical boundaries work and how even the shyest person can greet others well.

Joining and Leaving Groups

What do you do when you get stuck on your own, or with someone you don't want to talk to?

Learn how easy it is to join and leave groups seamlessly, to 'glad-hand' and to pass people on.

First Impressions

If you don't choose the impression you want to make, you'll get one by accident.

Practise choosing a number of first impressions to make and see what effect each impression has on other people.

Etiquette

Everyone at a networking event has a common goal: to meet people who might be useful to them.

The best networkers follow certain unwritten rules to help them make connections.

It's You They Buy

What works about you?

Knowing the impact you have on people is an important part of building effective relationships and becoming an ace business networker.

30 Second Influencer

How do you get your message across clearly, concisely and with impact?

This model cuts out the waffle and gets to the point.

And it makes the message relevant to the person receiving it.

Rehearsals

An opportunity to practise typical networking scenarios based on participants' own experiences.

We will use the techniques learned during the day to look at more effective outcomes.

Support Plan

Each person will identify:

• What they are taking away from the course
• What specifically they know they will use
• Where they will practise

We will give out Impact Factory documents to support the course.

You'll get copies relevant handouts to remind you of the coursework.

Ongoing Support

Two weeks after our UK networking course one of your trainers will call to see how you are getting on.

You will have email and telephone access to both of your trainers.

You'll also have access to a course web page containing

• Handouts used during the course
• New supportive material
• Impact Factory PDF documents
• Recommended reading
• Links to our favourite videos

Business Networking Course