When you begin networking for your small business you will be meeting other small business owners on occasion for the very first time. Very often it is the case that you will find yourself shaking hands. Not surprising, it is quite a common greeting. The unfortunate thing is that not everyone knows how to leverage that handshake for optimal positive memorability. That means simply that you seem professional make a good impression, don't crush their hand to pudding and stand a good chance they'll remember you (fondly) the next time you come calling. Follow these tips to have your business card, face and handshake planted firmly in their memory.
Small Business Network Tips for Success - Be Ready for the Handshake
As you approach another small business owner or individual at a networking event, be ready with your hand extended. When you make the first move and open yourself for introduction it shows that you're more confident and self-assured.
Small Business Network Tips for Success - Make Eye Contact
It's hard to respect someone that talks to their shoes and irritating to talk to someone that looks to the side the whole time you are talking, make sure you look prospective business contacts in the eye. According to research, it only takes 3 seconds of meeting someone's gaze to set them a little more at ease and build their feelings toward you. Smile, it will help to make a good impression and people at ease even if it usually makes your friends wonder what your up to.
Small Business Network Tips for Success - Use the Right Strength in your Handshake
It's important to use the right kind of grip when you shake hands. A tight handshake is important but too tight can be uncomfortable for the small business owner you meat. Not everyone ropes horses and bales hay so try not to choke their hand like rattlesnake. It's easy to pause for a split second to gauge the strength of the other person, the follow through and match their grip.
Small Business Network Tips for Success - Avoid the Sweaty Handshake
The dreaded "limp fish" handshake is one of the least popular. Always make sure you keep your hands dry. It is easy to get a bit sweaty in humid climates or when wearing a heavier suit. Make sure you have your hands thoroughly dried if you see someone approaching that might wish to initiate contact.
Small Business Network Tips for Success - Stick to the Right Hand
It isn't exactly fair to the lefty but custom dictates that we shake with our right hand. It is true that the original reasons for the custom aren't really valid anymore (they invented TP) but the custom still holds on it's own. Above and beyond it being customary, virtually everyone is used to the right hand shake and trying to force a left hand shake just throws people off balance and makes people see you as thoughtless. Trying to force your own way at the expense of custom isn't just eccentric in business, it can be seen as irresponsible, rude and self centered as well.
Small Business Network Tips for Success - Adapt
There are cultural as well as sub-cultural differences to contend with as well. When doing business in some cultures you must pay careful attention to the customs. Shaking hands with a woman is generally acceptable but some cultures view it as nearly criminal if not insulting. It would not hurt to discreetly check with a trusted source about the local customs ahead of time when engaging in business networking in these regions. Even if you aren't going over seas or across the border it can happen that even local business man can have different styles of handshakes so you should try to be familiar with the full arm, double pump and grip and twitch among others.
Author Resource:
Referral Vault provides businesses in the Virginia, Maryland and D.C. Metro area with access to targeted small business networking groups to finally build sustainable Business Leads . Discover how you can improve your brand reach and visibility with Small Business Networking today.
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