Wear appropriate attire. Many events will advertise a dress code. A business event which indicates “cocktail attire” is not the time to roll out a short or tight dress, significant cleavage, or four-inch heels (unless you are comfortable in high heels). Take a cue from young women who speak at formal political events, or female business executives. Their attire is always tasteful and classic with no potential for wardrobe malfunction.
Be curious. Your goal is to find out about someone else using those obnoxious listening skills we discussed. Ask questions and listen more than talk. Remember, the object of networking is to get to know people, not collect as many business cards as possible.
Be prepared. Have a couple conversation starters that can be used in most situations. For example: “Tell me how you came to be here this evening,” or, “How about those (insert local sports team here)?” If you are networking solo, look for “open” body language or other solo people to start a conversation. I am often able to strike up conversations in lines for food or the bar as well.
Have an exit strategy. If you find yourself ready to exit a conversation, you can excuse yourself to the restroom. You can also comment that there were a few other people you were planning to meet at this event. A good way to end the conversation is to say: “It was great talking to you. I know you are here to meet other people also, so I won’t take up any more of your time. If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know,” as you hand them a business card.
Take notes. Do this after the event or in an unobtrusive place such as the restroom. Please don’t take notes while talking! Who you met, work items discussed, personal information, and any stories shared should all be included in your notes. This information is valuable for follow-up later.
Service Assets. the organization needs assets to create value. Assets have two types : Capabilities . Like, wisdom, people, management Resources . Like, data and application. Capabilities by themselves cannot produce value without adequate resources. Figure 8 Service Value Responsibility Matrix There are many responsibility matrixes available with many variations, the most common is RACI. To create RACI or any of its variations. Column : build it by labeling a column head which will be the team member or the job function. Rows : On the Rows, list activity, services, whatever necessary. In each cross cell, fill the responsibility. Always use people names, not job functions. This will enforce the accountability. Responsibility Explanation Responsible R The one Executing the action. Accountable A The final approval. Typically, a team leader. Consulted C Subject matter expert. ...