Ernest A. Lewis    .

Executive Coach & Consultant    .

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Networking Notes

Personal contact is important - You have to show up to be in the show!

Here are some pointers:

1. Ask to have a networking lunch or coffee:

Get to know them.

Let them know you.

Find out who they know.

Be willing to go deep in the conversation.

Don’t sell, but be up front about your intentions.

Ask for their card.

Find out what you can do for them.

Take notes.

Ask for permission to follow up at later dates - then do it.

$ Initiator picks up the tab.

2. When asking for referrals:

This is not networking.

If you don’t ask, you won’t get.

Ask if they can refer work directly to you.

“Most of my business comes from word of mouth. Do you know anyone…?”

“If you know of anyone that should know about my business…?

3. Keep people informed about your progress with their referrals.

Thank you notes, simple, hand written.

Phone calls.

4. The 10-second commercial

Introduce yourself-place a pause between your first and last name.

Tell your company name.

Tell who suggested you call.

Tell the reason for your call.

5. Describe your business in one sentence.

6. Speak to the decision maker when you can.

Anyone else: get as much helpful information as you can.

Ask for their assistance.

When is the best time to call?

When will they be returning?

Who else might we talk with?

What is the receptionist’s name?

Do they buy similar products or services from someone else?

How do you spell their name?

7. Develop a database with contact names, numbers, addresses, and any relevant information.

Testimonials

“E.A. Lewis Consulting was hired to assist in efforts to improve morale in a warehouse environment. Ernie achieved such positive results that we expanded his project to include our sales and management teams. Ernie was also instrumental in our efforts to implement cost saving procedures. I highly recommend E.A. Lewis Consulting.”

- George Evanoff

General Manager

"I have hired Ernie for eight years as a trainer for my Leadership Toledo classes and will continue to do so. He does a terrific job as an individual and team developer. He is bright, active, fun and creative. Ernie is also a wonderful volunteer to many organizations and causes. He is an all around class act! Contact Ernie. You will be glad you did.”

- Dave Schlaudecker

Executive Director

Leadership Toledo

“I have known Ernie for over ten years and have always been impressed by his professionalism, knowledge and experience. He truly cares for his clients and helps them to reach peak performance.”

Jan Weakland

Sales and Marketing Capabilities Project Manager, BP

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