The X Factor - Make Sure You Have It

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The X factor – make sure that you have it

The success of speed dating events shows how quickly people make their mind up about someone. It is important to make the right first impression. Networking has its own conventions and etiquette.

The aim for any successful networker is to be memorable for the right reasons! Get it wrong? It takes 30 seconds to make a wrong impression and then a lifetime to undo it!

Some people aim to stand out from the crowd by wearing something unusual. I once knew a male solicitor who was famed for his colourful bow ties. One business woman always made a point of wearing a bright pink jacket so her “fuchsia would stand out amongst all the grey suits”

Think of the people you have met out networking. Who stands out as most memorable? Why was that?

More often than not it will be a story or subject that you spoke about. Or the person made you feel special in some way that you had their undivided attention or they engaged your emotions. The biggest compliment someone can pay you is to say that they feel so much better having spent time with you. Aim to remember at last one thing that you speak about.

Action steps

After a networking event spend some time reflecting on whom you met and what you spoke about.
Jot down a few brief notes on their business card as an aide - memoire.
File the business cards in event order.
Before attending the next event take 5 minutes to refresh your memory

Until next time and best wishes

Jane Wintringham

Leading Women Lawyers, Develop4choice, 20 Thornfield Road, West Park, Leeds LS16 5AR, United Kingdom
Tel 0113 305 3604 | Email: info@leadingwomenlawyers.co.uk