WINTER REFERRAL NETWORKER TIPS



Getting out and about at the moment is typically different this winter. Snow and treacherous black ice on the road are making driving in particular more challenging than usual. Here at BforB, we can share few of our experiences and tips to help you get going this winter.




1. Keep Warm – we all do this naturally but as a networker, the one accessory we thought you should remember to wear is gloves. Nothing beats a good handshake with your warm hands as you walk in the room. It makes you presence felt, and as if you have prepared a lot for the session.



2. Keep up to date about the weather in your target area. When planning for

one-to- one meetings, the best person to tell you about the temperature and forecast for the day is someone who either lives or works there. We know the weathermen get it wrong at least some of the time! Make a back up call and confirm your appointment - including a quick check of the local weather - by asking the person you are having a meeting with.



3. A box of mints or Strepsils, etc in your pocket or handbag is a useful thing to have on you. Nothing beats a good old mint when you accidentally bump in to somebody struggling to clear their throat. The gesture can create a good conversation to break the ice. As referral networkers, we speak to everyone, in the lift, or a queue, in buses or in trains and trams. Be ready.



4. Aim to arrive at the location early. As successful business people, we generally think about this anyway. However, what we mean here is additional time to give you the chance to compose yourself before entering a meeting room full of potential customers. Scraping that snow off your windscreen, as well as the usual traffic, can make you forget any meeting agenda. This could mean you do not have enough time to run through your objectives in your mind during your journey.



5. Make time to think how you can be of help to other businesses this season. For example, offer a lift to colleagues on way to work, a referral meeting or networking event. This way,h if you are stuck on the road you have help at hand and vice versa. Nothing beats a good laugh en route to work or any event this winter.



6. Be safe. Good Luck and enjoy doing business.