What are your thoughts on networking at social events not directly related to business?
Paying my respects the loved ones at a funeral recently, an individual pulled me aside to talk business. I don't mind a brief chat and exchange business cards and prefer not to dive into business conversation in a situation like this.
If this was a family picnic, the conversation can lead to a bit more business and again not too involved and not dominate the entire event.
At the grocery store a hello and small chat can lead to an opportunity to call the next business day to continue and to set-up a meeting as required.
At sporting events such as the Spitfires games, this leads to an atmosphere more of making connections especially in the lounge. However, diving too deep into business is not the goal. Making the connection and building a relationship is more important than getting right down to business conversation.
As a general rule I always take the lead from the other person and move it back to social and non-business as soon as possible to keep the relationship and conversation moving in the right direction. Creating the opportunity to touch base afterwards is my goal to continue the business conversation.
What are you rules?
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