Mingling Manners The Dos and Donts of Socializing in

Mingling Manners The Dos and Donts of Socializing in the Name of Business

In todays global marketplace, having good business etiquette can make the difference in gaining the competitive edge. Having good social skills and knowing how to mingle effectively are crucial tools in the business environment. Generally speaking the more polished your social skills are the more likely it is that you will make a lasting impression.

The first thing to do in socializing in the name of business is to realize the importance of networking. Since only 5 to 25 percent of all available job opportunities are advertised, the only way to discover the hidden job market is through meeting new people and building new relationships.

The next thing you want to do is make sure to make a good first impression. This means you should introduce yourself with a firm handshake, make eye contact and stand up straight. Making a lasting good first impression also involves having a professional appearance. Dressing appropriately means not to casual, too sexy of too sloppy.

When meeting in the name of business it is important that you display professional behavior. This means limiting your alcohol intake and trying to avoid jokes that may be offensive. When in doubt a conservative approach is always a good idea.

Another important part of social etiquette is being punctual. It is important to arrive on time. Being punctual is respectful and courteous. If you find yourself running late and being tardy is unavoidable, you should call to let the party who is waiting know.

Another do for socializing in the name of business involves the location of the meeting. Remember that if you are asking someone to go out of their way to meet you in hopes that you can build a business relationship pick a location that is convenient for them. Make sure that your meeting place is not far from where your contact lives or works. Less travel time means a greater chance that the contact will agree to the meeting.

Now that weve discussed all of the things you should do it is important to mention some of the things you should avoid as well.

Do not forget you business cards when attending a networking opportunity. Your business cards are min advertisements for you and our business, so make sure you have them handy at all times. You should hand them out generously, because the more business cards you have in circulation at any given time the more useful they will be to you. Another helpful tip in business card etiquette is to ask for a card in return when you give one out. When a new contact hands you their card, do not just quickly put it in your pocket. Read it over and make notes on the back.

Also, do not forget to follow up 24 to 48 hours after the initial contact. The follow up should make sure to thank the person for their can include a phone call, email, lunch invitation, or brief note. You time and suggest that you meet again.

In addition, avoid coming across as pompous. To effectively network, listening to others is just as important as promoting yourself. To avoid looking arrogant ask questions about others, offer advise, and dont talk too much about how great you think you are. While a big part of networking is marketing yourself, it is important to know where to draw the line.

Another mistake you should avoid when networking is monopolizing all of someones time. Keep in mind, people attend these events to socialize and mingle. They may become annoyed if they feel you are dominating their entire evening.

Knowing the dos and dont of socializing in the name of business is critical in order to make you networking experience a success.