There are two words one must keep in mind when networking: consistency and confidence. CONSISTENCY IS KEY ! One cannot be consistent in approaching executives and poor at following through. It will defeat the entire purpose of approaching in the first place. Confidence is built through experience. You may have been shy your first time approaching an executive but by your fifth time your feet should be warm to the game. The entertainment industry is 90% mental, so the real trick to talking to executives is seeing yourself as one. A woman with the right balance of confidence, consistency, and intelligence is a sure recipe for a game changer. Now let’s map out this game plan!
1. STRATEGY
Before you enter any room, study the people that are going to be present especially those you plan on speaking to. For example, Necole Bitchie who I love is going to be at a rooftop event in NYC. I should know that Necole Bitchie recently sent out a press release stating her resignation from her self-titled blog. I should also know her background: she grew up in Maryland, she slept on her aunt’s couch before her blog became popular, her was a radio producer in Detroit. Know your target person’s story to find the commonalities between you and them.
2. APPROACH
Studying your target prior to the event is one way to stay ahead of the game, but your goal should always be to remain at least two steps ahead. While applying your prior knowledge of your chosen target, analyze their mannerisms before approaching them to gain a sense of who they are. Also, keep in mind the type of environment you are in whether it be a rooftop event or an intimate networking event. Is your target person surrounded by a group of colleagues? Are they hanging out by the bar alone? In either case, how are they maneuvering in both settings? Are they on their phone? Are they checking their makeup? These are very important details to check for to devise a successful approach tactic.
For example, If you notice your target is checking her makeup a lot, walk over to the bar (smooth) and compliment her on her makeup followed by a formal introduction. The key is to never immediately bombard an executive with work or your pitch; you have to package your delivery just right.
3. WERK
Yay! You’re in. Now, the only question is “how do you keep the conversation going ?” Engage in strategic casual conversation. You complimented her makeup to start the conversation, now bring up her press release. “I’m a writer for FMHiPHop, and I always source your site in my articles, however; I’m glad you made a decision to show the world who Necole Kane is. Gossip sites get a lot of backlash, but I always felt a genuine warm hearted vibe from you.” In that statement alone, you said your occupation which shows what you are interested in, you showed her that you are a supporter, and you complimented her on her decision.
4.FOLLOW UP
One of the most valuable pieces of information I learned from an executive was that only 20% of the 80% that fought to get their email at an event will actually follow up after the initial meeting, and less than 20% will continue to follow up which leaves so much room for opportunity. The only thing you have to make sure of remains on point is your consistency, grammar, and delivery. The consistent route is the road less traveled. Stay on your target after the initial meeting by having something to offer. Every birthday, be sure to wish them a good one and go the extra mile by sending a small gift if it is feasible. Every promotion, be sure to congratulate them on another one while subtly updating them on your latest endeavors. Every event, be sure to attend with the intentions of speaking to them by the end of the night. Your goal is to make your presence known until they remember your face and eventually remember your name.
I hope these four tips will help guide you through your next networking event in an effort to earn that desired contact information or hopefully your next job offer.
Annice Brookins | IG: ordinary_inspirations
