Confident Communication for Effective Networking

COURSE OVERVIEW

Business networking is a powerful and successful tool for connecting individuals, creating long-lasting connections, and expanding enterprises. These successes don't result from a direct approach; rather, they arise from a desire to support others, from listening to others, and from intentionally meeting and introducing individuals to one another. Participants in this two-day training will master the fundamentals of business networking, including face-to-face, relationship-focused connections, and get insightful knowledge on the most effective corporate communication techniques. Upon completing the course, participants have an expanded ability to build professional relationships quickly and effectively.

KEY LEARNING OUTCOMES

·       Gain the ability to comfortably and confidently introduce oneself in a professional and social setting

·       Craft short, impactful introductory phrases for themselves and their organizations “elevator pitch”

·       Focus on relationship building with new people for network building

·       Apply the concept of giving first and being helpful as a part of a system of reciprocity

·       Use strategy and systems in order to network effectively before, during, and after events

·       Leverage the availability and usefulness of the Internet, including LinkedIn and Twitter

·       Acquire and develop effective business communication skills, verbal and nonverbal

LEARNING STYLE

This course is delivered as an interactive, immersive workshop, where the learning focuses on a meaningful set of best practices in communication and relationship building. Discussion and incorporation of theory and research happen alongside active practice sessions including role plays, conversation mocks, small group discussions, and other experiential activities. Video recording of activities will support the learning experience.

DETAILED COURSE AGENDA (Two Days)

DAY 1 – Foundations of Networking

1.      The Context for Networking

·        The purpose and outcomes from networking

·        Exploring personal communication styles

Activity: Participant introductions and video recording

·        Understanding key components of communication

Activity: Feedback and analysis on first round of introductions

2.      Preparing for the Networking Opportunity  

·        Where are you going and what do you intend to accomplish?

 “Beginning with the end in mind”

Activity: small group discussion

·        Who are you meeting with and what preparations are necessary?

·        Understanding cultural intelligence and preparing accordingly

·        Pre-event communication and relationship building

·        Preparing to share and collect contact information

Activity: Preparing for upcoming event

3.      Fundamental of Being in Communication

·        Effective vs. ineffective communication

·        Verbal and Nonverbal communication

Activity: Communication practice and analysis

·        Active listening as a critical component of communication

Activity: practicing active listening in conversation mocks

·        Barriers to effective communication and how to overcome them

4.      Participating in the Networking Event

•         Creating the positive first impression

(Video recording for self-analysis)

•         Developing a memorable introduction

•         Conversation starting and eliciting communication from others

•         Sustaining the conversation and observing nonverbal signaling

•         Closing the conversation and creating openings for the ongoing relationship

Activity: Role play and conversation mocks

DAY 2 – Elevating our Networking Skills

5.      During the Event/Meeting – What to do and not do?

·       How to be approachable and available?

·       How to join existing conversations?

·       How to be concise and succinct?

·       How to manage yourself and your comfort level?

·       How to manage difficult conversations?

·       Revisiting cultural intelligence conversation

·       How to be diplomatic?

·       Showing leadership and curiosity

Activity: Role play mock conversations during

1) a “meet and greet” event,

2) information-sharing meeting

3) social event including meals

6.      Following up After the Event/Meeting

·       Organizing the information and contacts

·       Follow up messages: crafting and delivery

·       Leveraging LinkedIn and other social media

·       Creating new opportunities for connection

·       Identifying opportunities for information sharing and relationship building

Activity: practice follow up messaging and communication

7. Course Conclusion

·       Summarize learning

·       Identify specific techniques to use at upcoming event

·       Last activity: Final practice being in communication

(video recording)

·       Feedback and assessment