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Dumb Ways to Network

Networking is a powerful tool for independent legal nurse consultants to find potential clients. Unfortunately, networking is not a skill that many nurses use in their day-to-day care of patients. Consequently, some new LNCs are ineffective at networking.  Here are some ineffective things to do when at a networking meeting:

  • Go to a networking event with a friend. You'll stay in your comfort zone with your friend instead of meeting new people.

  • Sit with friends or co-workers at the meeting. There's that comfort zone again.

  • Have no business cards.  This tells others that you're not serious about your business.

  • Have business cards with information crossed out or other information hand-written on the card.  This looks sloppy. Would you give a report with mistakes or handwritten comments to an attorney?

  • Ramble when you're asked what you do.  This isn't the time to talk about your life history.

  • Fail to ask others about themselves.  You'll be seen as egotistic if you only talk about yourself.

  • Have a limp handshake. A limp handshake implies distrust in the business world.

Smart Ways to Network

Networking is a bit like a job interview that occurs in a social setting. Here are some effective things to do when networking:

  • Go to networking events alone. This will force you to meet new people.

  • Shake others' hands firmly while looking them in the eye. This implies trust, sincerity and self confidence.

  • Have a 30-second commercial prepared.  Thirty seconds is about the right amount of time to explain what you do.  If your prospect wants more information, he or she will ask for it.

  • Circulate.  Try to meet as many people as you reasonably can.

  • Ask others about their work and listen to their responses. Take the time to have a genuine conversation. If you can find a commonality (e.g., same school, same hometown, etc.), you'll make a personal connection that's lasting.

  • Bring business cards. Ask for business cards from others and they will likely ask you for yours.

...Katy Jones

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