Watch this super-short video for a super primo tip on how to get the most out of any networking event, conference or seminar!
If you go to networking events or conferences, why do you go?
Is it to build your business, meet prospective clients or score a few referrals?
Do you grab a stack of business cards, brush up on your elevator pitch and get geared up to meet as many people as possible?
Well, that’s splendid. But I have a different way for you to leverage those events even more.
Try this.
Rather than go to networking events, conferences and such with the intention of promoting your business, making strategic connections and possibly attracting more clients, go with the intention of asking questions. Set the intention to meet and talk with those who exemplify your ideal client, and ask them specific questions that will allow you to get to know them better.
Some questions you might consider are:
- What is the one thing you would love to change in your business, your life, your relationships (choose whatever area applies to your ideal client)?
- What project are you working on right now, and how is it going? Is there some place you feel stuck or need a little help?
- What is really working in your business or life right now? What are you super excited about?
What I love about this min-interview approach is you not only get to know and understand more about your ideal client, you get to hear the language they use to describe what’s important to them!
As they answer your questions, pay attention to the words and phrases they use when they answer you. How do they describe or communicate their biggest challenge, project or success?
Pay attention and take note, because their words are the words you want to use when you’re writing your copy and content.
You want to use their own words and phrases because those are the words that will reach them, speak to them, and mean something to them. Listen closely to what they tell you. And when you write about your services, solutions, answers, etc., use the words and phrases your ideal clients uses when talking about what they need, want and dream about.
So, give this a try. It’s much more fun to go to a networking event armed with a good set of questions instead of a stack of business cards. (tweet that, why don’t ya!) And you could walk away with a big bucket full of inspiration, clarity and understanding of what your ideal clients really need and want.
Before you toddle off to what’s next, let me ask you, what question would you love to ask your ideal client?
Share that question by leaving a comment below.