Tangible results are necessary in enacting your core message. A business presentation is successful when audience members have been converted into clients.
This is where building networks and partnerships come in handy.
Here are four of the simplest ways to network after you pitch:
Initiate Dialog
Most presenters forget that their presentation isn’t a one-way street. It doesn’t end after all the speaker’s personal ideas and opinions have been exhausted. In fact, it’s only just beginning.
A dialogue with the audience is necessary to keep them engaged. Prompt them with questions, or take occasional pauses in your speech to let them think about what you’ve just said.
Open the floor to observations, questions, and concerns. Prepare conversation starters to let your audience know that you’re interested in cultivating professional relationships.
Maintain Visibility
Maintaining a visible image impresses your audience and is vital in making new contacts. Your sincerity must be seen in your actions and heard in your words.
Refrain from checking your watch or phone. These actions show your lack of focus or interest in reaching out to them. Expressing nonverbal cues such as handshakes, smiles, and eye contact also affirm your presence and increase your credibility.
Expressing nonverbal cues such as handshakes, smiles, and eye contact also affirm your presence and increase your credibility.
Pay Attention
Presentations don’t always need to be formal and serious. Step away from the podium and pay more attention to your audience.
According to Forbes contributor, Andrew Vest, one of the ways to effective networking is to never disregard anyone. Everyone in your audience is important in some way, whether they be direct decision makers or people who may have notable connections.
Listen to everything your audience has to say. But don’t just focus on their responses but also on the intent and emotions being reflected. This helps you understand how they perceive you and your message.
Prompt Follow-Up
Fostering partnerships starts with exchanging contact details. However, business cards alone can’t make your business grow.
Develop and use these contacts to thrive for new connections. Maintain the engagement before your speech ends. Set a goal for networking follow-ups.
In doing follow-ups, first determine whom you’ll contact immediately. Then, begin re-introducing yourself and reiterate your goal. Maximize the use of various networking mediums such as SMS, voicemail, and email.
To make it easier to maintain networks right after presentations, LearnVest’s Emma Miller suggests that you treat your connections like friends. This makes it more natural to do.
Conclusion
Effective networking strategies generate new leads and nurture professional relationships. Follow these tips for business growth and professional success.
Looking for high-quality presentations for your business? Give us a call at 1-858-217-5144 or request for a free quote from SlideGenius today.
References
“Email Marketing Tips: The Art of Pitching through the Inbox.” SlideGenius, Inc. 2014. Accessed June 29, 2015.
Miller, Emma. “Want More Work Contacts? Try The 80/20 Rule For Unselfish Networking.” Forbes. Accessed June 30, 2015.
Vest, Andrew. “How To Network The Right Way: Eight Tips.” Forbes. Accessed June 29, 2015.
