Today, on our 2012 kick-off People With Purpose community call, I was psyched to have a special guest on the call, Jane Pollak – author of Soul Proprietor, 101 Lessons from a Lifestyle Entrepreneur, and expert business coach.  A few snippets from our interview are below, and for the full lively chat, listen to the recording:  PeopleWithPurpose Call 1-4-12-Guest Jane Pollak!

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, bigger business owner, professional or someone in transition, (and you never want to really wait until you are in dire need to network anyway!) you stand to gain by getting savvy about how best to connect with others.  There are definitely do’s and don’ts when it comes to networking correctly.

Here are a few items we heard from Jane:

DO:

• Choose your networking groups and events carefully. They should align with you and give you a good “vibe” when you are in them. Trust your instincts.
• Network, even if it you are shy or reluctant–NO excuses, you need to get out there.  If it is difficult for you, contact the organizer for a meeting first or go with a friend.
• Come prepared. Always have cards with you and dress appropriately for the meeting, no matter where you are coming from.
• Be curious and interested in the people you meet. Make it about them not you.  Weave in something you do if you have common ground, but if you sell it will shut down the connection at square one.

DON’T:

• Take cards and then forget to follow-up. If you made a good connection, you’ll stand out by taking the time to email or call someone to get together. Most do not.
• Go into a meeting without a goal for the meeting. Think in advance what you most would like to get out of it. You likely will.
• Meet with someone after the initial meeting having done zero homework on who they are. Your questions will be broad and it will be insulting.
• Use the phrase “pick your brain.”  There are better ways to tell someone you admire their knowledge and would appreciate it if they might answer a few questions for you. <Woa, this one pushes both Jane and Jill’s hot button!>

Check out the call for more tips and to find out when to throw in the towel on the contact you really want to reach, but who is eluding you!  Recording:  PWP1-4-12Networking

Do you have a connection-making conundrum you want to post below?  Do tell…let’s figure it out!  OR share a strategy that works for you when it comes to making meaningful connections.