We live in an age where it seems everyone knows everything about everybody. And yet, social superficiality reigns. Instead of using digital intelligence to build deeper relationships with prospects and clients, casual acquaintances use Facebook to fire off birthday greeting to associates who are dead and gone. Leveraging the power of the Internet is not about technology, it's about connecting with people.
I'm fixing to get ready to attend the annual convention of the National Speakers Convention. I missed last year's event, so I've got some catching up to do. I've got a pretty good idea what everybody is up to, I'm just hoping it's not too obvious when I steal a glance at the name tag of someone I know but can't remember.
I'll be on the ground in the city of brotherly love for 60 hours, so I intend to make the most of every minute. I've already started packing for the trip. Not my slip-on shoes or my lucky tie, just lots and lots of details about those I want to connect with to ensure I will truly be present in Philadelphia.
If there is a conference or convention in your near future, let me suggest some tips you can use to make the most of your live experience.
- Don't even think you can do it all, you can't. Pick some high value targets including people you've always wanted to meet, sessions that focus on solving your greatest business challenge, and above all, having fun.
- Do your homework. There is no excuse for showing up unprepared. If they have a website, visit it. Check their social profiles for a status update. Knowing about a new job or living arraignment in advance eliminates awkward face to face moments.
- If you're a first-timer, be ready to jump right in. As my friend Kathy says,"Go ahead and leap off the cliff, you can always build your wings on the way down." Make the first move, say hello, sit at different tables or sections in the meeting rooms, ask for help. My favorite question is, "Who should I meet while I'm here?"
- We are on this earth for an agonizingly short time. Why go to all the trouble and expense of registering for an event and fail to show up fully engaged? Show up, do the work, be present.
- Keep it going. If someone presents you with a business card, it's a gift. Follow up with a written thank you. Even if it's only an email, it's more than polite, it's good business.