E-ssential
Message # 013:
The quickest way to improve your Essential Message.
Most
people go to networking events with the express purpose of
collecting a bunch of business cards, handing out as many of their
own cards as possible and try to find a client or two (or more).
If
that describes you, you may be missing out on networking's biggest value.
Think of a networking event as a giant focus group that you could use to figure out what resonates most with people about your business and what the true core value is that you offer.
As
you work the room, try emphasizing different aspects of your business. Ask
a lot of questions about the kind of service the person you're speaking
to would like to receive. And most importantly, pay special attention to
the reactions you get. You'll know when you hit on what we in the Essential
Message workshop call an Impact Statement when he or she suddenly expresses
interest, or says, 'oh, that's different!'
If you truly listen, you might be surprised by what people find most
interesting about your business.
That's
why, even if you have an extensive personal network and you have no need
to expand it further, I always recommend going to networking events.
Not only do you get the opportunity
to mix and mingle with a dynamic community of people who have gone through
the workshop, these events also give you the quickest way I know to refine and improve what you say about who
you are, what you do and the value you offer to your clients.
And
that's what makes these events 'Essential'
  
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Clients also say that one of the biggest advantages of the Essential Message approach is how it helps them gain the confidence, momentum and resilience that can only come from being absolutely clear about their strengths and unique difference – as companies and as individuals. 
