Advertising, Marketing, Videography and Connecting Local Businesses with the Community
- LKNConnect & Associates
Walking into a new networking event can feel intimidating, but breaking the ice is easier than you might think. Start by offering a genuine smile and a simple introduction. Like, “Hi, I’m Jim; what brings you here?” is all it takes to open the door to conversation. Remember, whether at a formal event or a local informal gathering, everyone is there to connect and share information. Never hesitate to approach someone standing alone or in a small group.
Always ask open-ended questions about business or interests. Ask, ‘Why do you do what you do?’ or “tell me about yourself. Then, just actively listen. Active listening is a skill, so it improves every time you practice it. It helps every conversation to naturally flow. Eye contact and a smile also show genuine interest. Complimenting someone’s work or sharing a light, relevant anecdote can also set a friendly tone. If you’re nervous, remember that most people appreciate someone who listens well and responds with interest. Keep your body language open and approachable, and don’t forget to exchange contact information before leaving the conversation. Follow up with a note or text, stating how much you enjoyed the meeting. By focusing on authentic engagement rather than perfecting your sales pitch, you’ll find that breaking the ice becomes less about overcoming nerves and more about building meaningful connections that last beyond the event.
Finally, it is a numbers game to grow your relationships, and we are all math-magicians.
Relationships are everything.
This blog post about small businesses is from Jim Vogel, Small Business Ambassador, Cornelius, NC.
Jim Vogel is a prominent figure in the Lake Norman and Cornelius, North Carolina business community. He founded and chairs the Lake Norman Small Business Network (LKNSBN), established in 2014, which operates on a “servant networking” model emphasizing inclusivity and community support without fees. Vogel has a background in internal communications from Ford Motor Company and Hendrick Automotive Group.
He also founded I.M.U. Social Media LLC in 2011, providing affordable social media services to skilled trades. As the Small Business Ambassador for Cornelius, Vogel supports local businesses and coordinates community blood drives, earning him respect as a regional leader.
I.M.U. Social Media for Skilled Trades
Town of Cornelius Small Business Ambassador
Chair, Lake Norman Small Business Network
www.lknsbn.com
919 244 6989
The information in this blog article is for informational purposes and is not presented for any other reason.
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The information in this blog article is for informational purposes and is not presented for any other reason.
