Web Business Woman

3 Ways to Get the Most Out of Showing Up

May 30th, 2009

Wear something that people can
comment about.

Many of you have met me at live
events and know that I wear a shopping cart lapel pin. Everyone said, “Wealthy
Bag Lady, where’s your shopping cart”, so I bought a shopping cart refrigerator
magnet, put my logo on it and turned it into a lapel pin. This is great because
when people ask about it, I tell them about my business. I’ve seen a woman who
fixes computers show up wearing a white lab coat. One of my favorite speakers,
Mimi Donaldson, always wears pink. That way, when she does her follow-up, she
says, “Remember me, I was the one in the pink outfit?” Get creative and don’t
be afraid to stand out from the crowd.
Make your own badge.
Instead of those cheesy little
badges they give you at the event, make your own at the local copy or office
supply store. You can get creative and put a photo, logo or business tag line
along with your name on your own custom name badge.
Have a networking plan.
Many of you have a business plan
and marketing plan, but what about a networking plan? Most people attend events
without clear goals for why they’re showing up. Your plan could include meeting
at least 3 potential clients or referral sources. If so, don’t just leave the
business cards you collect on your desk collecting dust. Follow up on those
connections with a phone call or quick email.