This morning I attended an event about women's health sponsored by a local Chamber. One of the first people I recognized was Laura. I first met Laura about 2 years ago when she had been laid off by Chrysler and was attending a breakfast networking meeting sponsored by a women's group.
She had worked in the HR (Human Resources) department and was looking for a similar job in a corporate setting. Laura is friendly, energetic, an easy person to coach and someone who listens well.
After 8 or 9 months of unsuccessfully looking for a job she hung her own shingle and became a life coach, helping people figure out what direction to take, how to take it, and helping them obtain the skills they'll need to get where they want to go.
Laura says she's doing well but would like to do better. She knows that will be tough in Michigan given the economy. Even so, the lady keeps trucking. She attended this event, which did cost $24 probably because it was accompanied by a Continental breakfast, and I'll see her at another networking event next week.
Networking works for both Laura and I. We seldom see instant success such as gaining a new client immediately but it's not unusual for someone to call 6 or 9 months down the road. More often we receive a call from someone else we met at the event who wants us to have a conversation with one of his clients or a family member or a colleague. If we don't keep showing up and have some face time in these gatherings we'll be forgotten. And neither of us has the celebrity status to be remembered over time. So we show up and give our 60 second introduction and schmooze.
Schmoozing works. You need it to be one of your skills. Flirting is a kind of schmoozing so most of us have had some experience. Today you need it more than ever. It will help you get connected with others who may bring you referrals or serve as resources.
You just never know who someone else may know!
If you have some great tips on schmoozing let me know. I'd like to start a list of tips for schmoozing. Scroll down to comments and type your tip in the blank window. Much appreciation.
To your business success regardless of age.
Ruthan Brodsky
P.S. There were 2 men who also attended.
You hit the nail on the head. Schmooze is easy going conversation (according to Joys of Yiddish) that connects us to others. That's why networking works for people who meet,converse, engage and take an interest in others. Whether it's job search or career management, when we stay visible among our colleagues and meet new ones, we are investing in ourselves.
Susan RoAne author, Face to Face: How To Reclaim the Personal Touch in a Digital World.
Posted by: Susan RoAne | 06/06/2009 at 08:45 PM