Local architect Michelle Shevelew of M2S Architects has been described as ‘a networker par excellence’ – a person who walks into a room and identifies the people she thinks could be of value to her and her business.
She ran an exercise at a recent networking function organised by ORT Jet Cape Town, during which she shared some of her tips for getting the most out of an event.
Michelle always makes a point of arriving at a function early. “That gives me the opportunity to chat to other people over a cup of coffee,” she explains. “One never knows whom one may meet when having an informal discussion like this. For instance, I’ve met people this way who need some building advice, and that way I’ve secured a new client.”
Another piece of advice that she shares is to listen to what other people say when they are speaking or presenting, and to write something down from what they said that you found interesting, so that you have a point to pick up with the person in a later discussion. You can then steer the conversation around to let the person know more about what your business offers – that may lead to an enquiry from the person themselves or from one of their contacts.
This last point is an important one for Michelle. “Always think of the audience as not only the person you are talking to but as their contacts too. The individual in front of you may not need your service now – or ever, for that matter – but they may know other people who would be interested in you. The initial conversation could potentially lead to new clients and so it’s definitely worth the effort,” she says.
ORT Jet Cape Town provides networking opportunities and support for entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals. Contact nicole@ortjetcapetown.org.za to find out more.
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