Imagine you are at a networking event armed with your perfectly crafted elevator pitch. You’re eager to hook potential clients and showcase your expertise. However, like many entrepreneurs, I used to make some common mistakes that hindered my networking success. In this blog post, I’ll share my journey of improvement, focusing on valuable tips that transformed my elevator pitch and my ability to connect with people at networking events.

Prioritizing Eye Contact

One of the most significant improvements anyone can make when networking is prioritizing eye contact. When presenting yourself, be present with the person in front of you. Put away your business card and any distractions, and stay connected with the individual as if they are the most important person in the room. This not only displays your confidence but also conveys genuine interest and dedication.

Get Personal Through Sharing

After introducing yourself and your business, consider sharing a unique and relatable personal fact. Whether it’s a hobby, a passion, or a life experience, this personal touch can establish a memorable connection. Discussing my love of travel and my commitment to an open mind humanizes me, making it easier for others to connect with me personally.

The Art of Follow-Up

Once you’ve invested time in an interaction, exchange contact details, and afterward, make an intentional effort to stay in touch. Send a follow-up message referencing your discussion and expressing your desire to work together now or in the future. You can even propose a meeting to explore potential collaborations further. This demonstrates your commitment to building a meaningful connection.

Whether you’re seeking employment or expanding your entrepreneurial network, mastering your elevator pitch is essential and a journey. These tips can help you get started on transforming your elevator pitch from a transactional exchange into a genuine connection-building opportunity.

You may not get it right every single time, but if you constantly reevaluate and always remember that people connect with people, not business cards or websites. Be authentic, engaged, and proactive in following up with your network contacts. By doing so, you’ll watch your elevator pitches lead to more meaningful relationships and successful collaborations.

You can see my recent quick and personal elevator pitch video from my recent networking event here. I would love to hear what you think!

Have you faced similar networking challenges? Share your experiences or questions in the comments section below. Let’s engage in a fruitful discussion and help each other grow as networking professionals.

Consider my Complimentary First Impression Makeover if you want to create a more intentional and positive first impression.