Here are some networking tips I've developed during my years in business. I try to keep these principles in mind whenever I'm out meeting peopel. I find that people don’t like being prospected, but they do like talking about themselves and their business. And everyone is looking for someone who can help them. If you keep this framework in mind you'll do very well relating to people you meet in the market place. Now here's some more detail to get you started. Good luck!

Genuinely Care:
•   If you care they will be responsive.
•   Hook people up.
•   Ask questions that give them a sense that you are genuinely interested in them.

Find a Way:
•   Fine a way to meet people.
•   This can be any gathering
      - Chamber of Commerce
      - Rotary Club
      - Social Party
      - Charity Event
      - PTA Meeting
      - IBA Event

Make it Fun:
•   Instead of being threatening, make it fun for both of you.
•   We’ve been taught to immediately tell people what we do!
•   You want them to ask what you do!
•   Start you conversation with “what do you do?.”

The Infamous Elevator Pitch:
•   You don’t want to do this!
      - “Well, we help people create health and wealth.”
      - “We find the sales, you get the deals.”
•   Put a smile on their face, not “oh boy, here comes another pitch”.

3-Word Sentences You MUST Remember:
•   They don’t care!
•   It’s about them!
•   It’s not about you!

How to Get Started:
•   How did you get started in your so-and-so job or business?
      - This invites them to tell you their life story.
•   What do you enjoy most about what you do?
      - Do not come in as the hero that can help them should the conversation go negative.
•   How can I know if someone I know would be a good contact for you?

Follow-Up:
•   After the conversation, find ways to add value to their lives.
•   Send them information they might find interesting.
•   Handwritten “Thank-You” – “If I can ever refer business to you, I will.”
•   At this point, they have trust in you.
•   Should they become a customer, their referrals are yours too.

Referals:
•   How to ask – “Pete, I’m in the process of expanding my referral business. I find it’s helpful to partner with my friends, such as you. Can we take a minute or two to go over some contacts of yours I might be able to help?”
•   Be non-threatening.