Roanoke Valley Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours
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The Roanoke Valley Chamber of Commerce will host a Business After Hours from 5:30-7 pm at The Roanoke Valley Chamber of Commerce Building at 260 Premier Blvd in Roanoke Rapids on Networking is one of the keys to business and personal success. The ability to meet others and develop a relationship that will benefit both parties is a skill that does not come easy for some people. Even so, networking is the number one way to get a new customer or a new vendor in the door which could save your company money. Networking is often the only way to access otherwise inaccessible people. The idea of six degrees of separation is that there are never more than six people between you and the person you want to talk to. You never know if the person you meet can get you into the office that you have striving to enter. A personal connection is the absolutely the best way for your business to grow. It takes time and effort. Okay, how do you start? At the next Business After Hours, Job Fair, Chamber committee meeting or other function, find someone you do not know and approach them with a smile. Introduce yourself and after their introduction, simply ask “Tell me about your business.” At this point, listening becomes the utmost importance for at least two reasons. Listen for clues of how your product or service may fit into the person’s business and also listen for a common denominator you have. If the person fits your customer profile, after a little more conversation about what their company offers, ask if you can follow-up with an appointment. Most of the time, it is not appropriate to try to sell him/her your product/service at this venue. Networking events are most often designed for members to meet potential customers and a direct sales approach will turn off most people. There are venues for direct sales such as trade shows or events like Business Expo where that tactic is more appropriate. If the person agrees to a follow-up call, it is imperative that you follow through on your request. Calling for the appointments shows that you care about the other person and the relationship. You can begin your intro on the phone with “I’m Ruby and we met at the Chamber Business after Hours…” You have a common base from which to build. Letting the appointment slide is a death blow for a sales lead. You will probably see the person again and there usually will not be a second chance. As always, first impressions are important. You have only one chance to make a first impression - good or bad. Build your confidence, acquire a great handshake (thumb up - fingers pointed forward), approach people with a genuine smile and make good eye contact. Listen attentively to their name and how you pronounce it. If you don’t hear them or understand exactly what they say, don’t be ashamed ask them to repeat it. Make sure when you leave that the other individual knows who you are, what goods or services your company offers, and how to get in touch with you. Business cards become crucial. Never leave home without them. They are your billboard for your new contact. For more information contact Ruby Gerald at 252-537-3513 |
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Location : 260 Premier Blvd, Roanoke Rapids, NC 27870 |
Date and Time
Thursday Dec 15, 2016
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM EST
Contact Information
Amy Nowell
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