Picture this: you walk into a business and immediately need assistance finding what you need. You went to this business precisely because you needed something they offer. But if you cannot immediately find it, are you willing to stay and figure it out, or are you leaving and going elsewhere?
Now, add this to your picture: you walk into a business and are greeted by an employee wearing a name tag that gives you all the information you need. Then you notice that all of the employees are wearing name tags. Now, are you staying? The point: name tags are essential business tools for creating success.
So, who needs name tags? Everyone! Studies have shown that communication is enhanced when people know each other’s names. That is why name tags are so important. Whether you are a professional, a business, an educator, a meeting planner or anyone else, name tags are for you.
Finding your name tag
Whether it is a reusable tag like a Mighty Badge or something more permanent like a name tag with a UV Color Logo enhanced with all the upgrades, each profession deserves a suitable name tag. We want to make it easy for you to find your name tag. Follow this table to find a name tag that is best suited to your business.
How to use these essential business tools
While you may understand that you need name tags for your company, do you understand what a name tag is? These business tools help every company provide quick employee identification and help with organization. Name tags also give customers instant knowledge of who is working and who can help them answer their questions. Here are some easy definitions to help you find that perfect name tag for your business.
Professional Name Tags
As a professional, you understand the importance of connecting with your clients. When you wear a name tag, you encourage communication. As part of your profession, you also know the importance of quality and how every detail matters. Let your name tags help you show your clientele just how much you appreciate them and that you are an expert in your field.
Things to add to your professional name tag:
Names (first and last), Titles and credentials, Logos and other branding
What your name tags should express:
“I can be trusted because of the level of expertise I have in my field. I am a professional.”
Examples of occupations that would use professional name tag styles:
Law/Judicial
Libraries
Advertising/Marketing
Medical/Dental Office
Hospital/Medical Institution
Veterinary/Pets
Clubs/Fraternities
Nonprofit/Association
Educational
Personal/Family
Finance/Insurance
Real Estate/Housing
Government/Military
Sports (Professional)
Journalism/Public Relations
Employee Name Tags
As a business owner, you know that your employees are part of the key to success. So, when you use the proper name tags to identify them, you enable your customers to have the best experience possible. Employees are held accountable for their actions when their name is easily seen on a name tag. From logos to names, choosing the right name tag for your employees will help ensure business success.
Things to add to your employee name tags:
Names (first and last – when appropriate), titles, Logos that match your branding
What your name tags should express:
“Please talk to me. I can assist you in finding answers to your questions.”
Examples of occupations that would use employee name tag styles:
Arts (Theaters, Museums, etc.)
Automotive
Business/Technology
Staffing/Temp
Nonprofit/Association
Religious
Manufacturing/Construction
E-commerce
Print/Engraving
Parks and Rec
Events/Event Planning
Fairs/Festivals
Retail
Food Service
Wholesale/Distribution
Personal Care (Gyms, Salons, etc.)
Sports/Camps/Youth Programs
Hospitality/Tourism
Transportation
Temporary Name Badges
Most employers understand that wearing name tags goes hand in hand with credibility. That also pertains to temporary or seasonal employees. When you provide these staff members with reusable name badges, you accomplish two things. One, identification for everyone. And two, the ability to reuse these badges for different people as needed. Temporary badges enable all employees to receive the benefits associated with name tags, including improved communication and networking.
Things to add to your temporary name badges:
Names or titles where appropriate, Logos when needed
What your name tags should express:
“We believe that everyone is important and that everyone who is helping should be recognized for their efforts.”
Most occupation types have a form of a temporary worker. From interns to seasonal help, temporary name badges are appropriate for nearly every business type with employees who are only there for a short time.
Name tags are essential business tools
Now that you have a complete picture of what your customers need to see as they walk into your business, we are here to help you find the perfect identification. From high quality logos to reusable badges, we guarantee to have your most essential business tool: a name tag.
Affordable, reusable badges provide employee and personal identification when there is a high turnover rate and high demand. Our quality badges are convenient and perfect for identifying volunteers, conference attendees and temporary employees. Get the most out of each name badge by using them over and over again by writing on them with markers.
Reusable means that you have the flexibility to customize names and other information on the spot. Since you can easily erase and write new names, you can reuse each badge for different events. They are ideal for any business, event or classroom. Write names with a permanent or erasable chalk marker onto each badge for quick identification.
The MAGIC of Dry Erase Markers
When using any marker to write on your products, we recommend testing that they work as expected and can be removed according to your needs. Erasable chalk and permanent markers work on all our plastic and metal products. Watch this video to learn about removing the marks from our name badge products.
Badge Materials and Usability
Now that you know how to remove permanent and erasable chalk markers from your name badges, let us help you find the right tag for your needs. We have several options that you can choose from that are in both metal and plastic materials.
Chalkboard Name Badges: This plastic material is specifically made for erasable chalk markers. It allows you to write and wear. Just remember to wait for the chalk marker to dry before adding to a uniform. | DESIGN YOUR BADGE
Dry Erase Name Badges: Using markers is easy on this slick, plastic surface. Using dry erase markers makes for a quick change. However, be aware that the marker comes off easily and will be removed at the slightest touch. | CREATE A TAG
Logo Only Name Badges: Adding a logo helps associate your employees with the brand image you have worked to build for your company. Engraved single color logos and UV color printed logos are available on plastic and metal materials. Full color badges (digitally printed and may contain a bleed) are only available on plastic. | UPLOAD YOUR LOGO
Blank Name Tags: Add temporary names and titles using our marker method or a label or sticker. These name badges come in both metal and plastic materials. | ORDER NOW
Erasable Chalk Markers: These markers wipe off easily from most badge surfaces. When using markers of any kind to write on your reusable name badges, make sure to follow our guidelines for the best results. | BUY MARKERS
How to remove permanent marker from nearly any hard surface: DRY ERASE MARKERS!
It’s back to school time. Students know they are going back to school, and they are ready to see their friends. Parents are excited for a return to a stable schedule. School organizations are in the process of planning for back to school events, fundraising and autumn activities. Although some of us are a little more hesitant about returning to these tasks, we should all prepare for what is to come.
We understand that teachers are facing the time of back to school setup and organizing their classrooms. Parents may be shouting for joy during this time; however, one of the hardest things teachers must do is prepare their rooms for students to return. So, we are here to help teachers and other educators prepare their supplies for back to school needs.
Back to school needs are everywhere, from books to pencils, pens and note paper. Kids need all sorts of supplies to start the school year off right and prepared. While we don’t offer these items, don’t underestimate the importance of name tags and identification for your classroom.
You may think having students who want to be at school and learn from their teachers sounds too good to be true. But that’s what schools that focus on increasing student engagement are seeing. More than coming to class and turning in homework, engaged students are enthusiastic about their education and desire to excel in their classes. So if you want to see your students succeed, you must figure out how to engage them in the learning process.
Whether it’s for the first day of school or needing to know how to make a lesson plan, this information is for everyone in the education field. Even students can learn from these tips. From how to use identification products in the classroom to advice on setting up storage for the school year, find everything you need here.
Motivating Students and Recognizing Individual Excellence
As a leader and a teacher, you have a responsibility to make sure that your students know how much you care about their learning and retention. When you celebrate even small achievements, you are helping your students see their excellence. This recognition will help them understand what their education is all about.
Engaging with your students will help to motivate them to do their best work. Take the time to recognize individual achievements so you can manage engagement, help reduce stress and increase productivity among your students. Motivation naturally comes when everyone is involved in staying productive and on task.
Recognizing individual excellence can build an educational culture that retains the best students. However, the truth is that no one can be successful alone. You always need help somewhere along the way. Most anyone can learn a skill, but not everyone knows success is all about how you prioritize people and talents.
Learning is more effective and stimulating when using teaching tools already in front of you. It is up to teachers and other school staff to ensure every student has the tools they need to learn. When students know what tools they have available and how each works, they are more apt to pay attention and, in the long run, learn what they need to succeed.
We are here to help you know how to personalize your school and use these teaching tools. From the classroom to the counseling center, we have custom products to make your school run smoothly. Use these great teaching tools to help your teaching and instruction.
Here’s a fun idea: when giving out welcome gifts to your students, wrap them with fun ribbon rolls. Your students are guaranteed a great first impression when handed trinkets with personalized ribbons wrapped around them. And, maybe they will even behave a bit better as a way of saying thank you for your thoughtfulness.
NAME TAGS
Most teachers have so many students that it is hard to remember everyone’s names. Name tags are great helpers that make remembering names easier. And the students will love the personalization and knowing there is a specific space just for them. Using these tools can also help students get to know each other.
There are many times when these name tags will come in handy. For example, career days, Grandparents’ Day and other school events. From adhesive badges to a more permanent solution of engraved tags, when you need your students to wear their names, these teaching tools are great to have available. Student name tags are also useful for labels around the classroom. For example, you can use them on a pocket chart to identify each student or use name tags to create a display for student jobs each week on your whiteboard.
Motivate your students to do their best by creating learning objectives for your class. Learning objectives show your students what they can achieve if they pay attention and complete assignments. Once they understand how your class benefits them, they will take it seriously.
Part of keeping your students engaged mentally is giving them a chance to unwind. To make this easy, customize name tags with various mental breaks (e.g., sing a song or play rock, paper, scissors) and put them in a jar. Then, when it is time for a mental break, take a tag out of the jar and have your students do that activity.
PHOTO ID BADGES and LANYARDS
Quickly identify students, staff and visitors in your school using photo ID badges and colorful lanyards. These tools help with identification, security, classroom aids and extracurricular events.
Photos, along with names, titles and logos, are presented on these badges in a way that provides extra security at your school. With these elements, you can quickly identify those who belong wandering the halls. So, provide photo ID badges for teachers and school staff to ensure the proper people enter and exit your building.
Whether hundreds or thousands, it doesn’t matter how many kids come back to your school this year; security is always an issue. Yes, there are name tags and photo ID badges for the teachers. But how do the children keep their things safe and secure?
Lanyards are a convenient way of displaying identification and other things while at school. And these lanyards don’t have to be boring. Choose from a variety of colors to match your school and mascot.
Help your students stand out from the rest with bright colors, logos and messages custom imprinted on these lanyards. These lanyards are also perfect for fundraising events, sporting meets and any other time your school gets together.
Learn even more about incorporating Custom Lanyards into your teaching tools.
BADGE RIBBONS
Badge ribbons are always fun to collect, especially when your favorite teacher gives you one as achievement recognition. Many students enjoy decorating their desks with these fun ribbons. Or they use them as bookmarks. No matter how students collect each ribbon, they will always take them home to display these awards proudly for all to see.
These ribbons are so incredibly versatile that they are also great for labeling things in the classroom. Customize each ribbon with memorable quotes or other text as well as graphics to match the uniqueness of your needs. You can also choose from many different colors (both ribbons and imprinting).
So, help each person at your school see just how important they are with these incredible ribbons. Whether for a new teacher in your school or a way to identify different grades, badge ribbons are the best solution ever. With double-sided tape ready to stick to anything (like a name tag), these ribbons are super easy to use.
Use these wonderfully versatile ribbons in just about any school setting you can think up. Custom (and stock) ribbons are essential in your classroom and available for your students. Choose from an abundance of ribbon selections to meet most any need you might face in the classroom.
Extra Teaching Tools
Now and then, teachers need a little help and guidance to help enrich their teaching styles and the education of their students. These articles will feature helpful hints and tidbits on how to run a classroom and so much more. So, if you’re struggling to get things done and help your students or just want to add to your teaching toolbox, these education tools are for you!
Good manners and classroom etiquette should be common sense for most students. However, there are simple things that you can do as a teacher to help your students be more courteous to others.
Things to do for preparing for the first day of school: organizing paperwork, finding and prepping classroom materials, writing lesson plans…the list goes on and on.
From writing a welcome letter for the students and parents to drawing up lesson plans, most teachers are exhausted before they even start with their back-to-school preparations. And, thinking about this first day back can leave many teachers feeling out of sorts. With so many things to consider and tasks to accomplish, many wonder where to even get started.
And, while a Google search will yield hundreds of planning options and ideas, it can be daunting. So, here are some guidelines that will fit every classroom need. From large classes at a university to smaller K-5 classes, no teacher should start their back-to-school planning without first reading this.
Creating and Keeping Classroom Etiquette
Every teacher is currently feeling the stress of the upcoming first day of school. And, preparing a school classroom can sometimes be overwhelming. With a list of things to do that is a mile long, it can be a hassle deciding where to start.
FOR THE TEACHER:
Get to know your students beforehand. If you need to, find their class picture from last year so you can know what they look like. Then, memorize their name and face. Every student is sure to feel shocked and pleased that you know who they are. They are also more likely to behave well when they know you are that observant.
Make your classroom environment engaging. From bulletin board decorations to names on desks, make sure to capture each student’s attention as they enter your room. Take time with your decorations so that they are neat and uniform. Doing this will help students stay focused and add to your teaching methods.
Greet every student, every day. While this may at first seem daunting, your students are sure to see your effort to make them feel welcome. And with this comes the respect for your ability to see them as individuals. Some teachers go as far as creating secret handshakes with every student. While you don’t need to take that much time, make sure every student knows you respect them as a person.
Set expectations and classroom rules. Then, write them down and put them somewhere that the students can see them daily. By having your rules visible, it is easy to refer to them when a student steps out of line. And, with visibility comes conformity. Students are more likely to follow rules to which they have quick access.
Teacher Tips:
So, keep your students in line and respectful in your classroom by using these guidelines every day. And, remember when you show them respect, they are more likely to show you respect. Common sense isn’t so common anymore, but with these simple rules, your students will help you and themselves to maintain your classroom etiquette.
FOR THE STUDENT:
It is, after all, your education. Take responsibility for it. And, make sure that you are learning everything you can. Yes, sometimes it is hard to pay attention to classroom instruction, especially when you think you know what is going on. But, it is important to remember you are not the only student there. Here are some quick guidelines to follow as a student to help be more respectful in your classroom.
(Your teacher will thank you for reading this!)
Attend class, every time and on time. Start your school day off on the right foot by getting to class on time. Not only will this help you, but it will help your teacher and other students as well.
Speak in turn and only when acknowledged. Your teacher asks you to raise your hand for a reason. If everyone in the class decided to all talk at the same time, the room would fill with voices. And, once that happens, everyone soon thinks that they must speak louder to be heard. So, make sure you only talk when you get permission. It will help with the volume in the classroom, and it will also make sure you stay on task.
Respect your teacher and your classmates. Yes, everyone in your classroom deserves your respect. From the janitor to your teacher and the principal, respect is the key to have a great school experience. Remember to show others the same respect that you want to receive. It goes both ways, so show respect to earn respect.
Come to class prepared and have your homework ready to turn in. It’s that simple. Don’t show up to class without your books, pencil, note-taking paper and especially your homework. Your teacher assigns homework so that you can learn. Respect them and do your homework and get it in on time.
Student Tips:
From raising your hand to keeping a working pen in your bag, as a student, you have tremendous responsibility for the quality of your education. So, remember that what you do in class affects you and everyone around you. Respect, preparation and basic good etiquette are a must to make the most out of your school year.
Pro Tip #1: Write Down Everything
Any time you think of anything you need, something you need to add to lesson plans or anything else, WRITE IT DOWN. While this may seem a simple task, it is your greatest tool. With so many things to remember and do, writing down your tasks is important. Keep a notebook or planner handy, and make sure to keep it neat. Don’t trust yourself to remember everything. Your brain is currently on overload, and you may overlook necessary things you need for your classroom.
So, take a moment every time you think of something that needs to be done and write it down. Free up your brain for more important tasks and things you are working on immediately. And, by writing everything down the moment you think about it, will give you a hand up for next year. Keep this notebook as a reference for every first day back you have. So, whether your thought is that you need more crayons or that your lesson plans for your chemistry class need to be updated, write it down!
From name tags to ribbons, we have all your classroom needs!
With as many choices as we have for these name badges, we’re sure to have what you’re looking for! Use adhesive name badges for the new students as name tags on their desks to make them feel welcome. Customize a Mighty Badge for each of the hall monitors. Or use a name badge as your hall pass. With magnetic fasteners, it will be easy just to have the student attach the badge to their shirt, and you’ll never lose another hall pass.
And, don’t underestimate badge holders. While they aren’t quite in this product category, they are instrumental in schools. This simple way of displaying credentials is as convenient as they come. The lightweight vinyl allows for everything to be seen through them. You can add pictures, schedules, names and so much more. Use them for students, teacher and visitors.
Whether it’s for a new teacher in your school or a way to identify different grades, badge ribbons are here to be the best solution ever. With double-sided tape ready to stick to anything (like a name tag), these ribbons are super easy to use. Great for labeling things in the classroom, these ribbons are incredibly versatile.
Use them as labels when storing classroom supplies like markers or crayons. Or, give them to students as you are trying to learn all the new names for this school year. So, no matter what you need these wonderful ribbons for, they are perfect for nearly everything!
Whether it’s hundreds or thousands, it doesn’t matter how many kids are coming back to your school this year. Security is always an issue. Yes, there are name tags and photo ID badges for the teachers. But how do the children keep their things safe and secure?
Lanyards are a convenient way of displaying identification and other things while at school. And these lanyards don’t have to be boring. Choose from a variety of colors to match your school and mascot!
These lanyards are also perfect for fundraising events, sporting meets, and any other time your school gets together. Help your students stand out from the rest with bright colors, logos and messages custom imprinted on these lanyards.
Pro Tip #2: Emergency Folder
Every teacher, at some point in their career, will need to use a substitute. Whether it’s for a personal day or to take a continuing education class, you will need a sub. So, make it easy for them to function in your classroom.
Make sure that you have an emergency substitute folder already in place by the first day of school. There will come a time when an unforeseen circumstance arises, and you may not be able to have time to leave the substitute lesson plans. In this packet include: quick lessons, worksheets, class list, schedule and routine, behavior management plan, school policies and procedures, important student information such as food allergies and teaching colleagues’ contact information. Always keep this packet on your desk in case of an emergency. This is something quick and easy that you can do before school even starts.
In your packet, welcome the substitute to your classroom and provide them with a map of the room. Tell the sub in this letter what your room rules are and the punishments that go with breaking a rule. This way, the sub doesn’t need to rely on the students for this information.
Also, make sure that the sub has access to pictures and names of students. Help your substitute feel like they belong in your classroom. Give them all the daily tools that you usually have so they can feel adequate in their teaching abilities.
Pro Tip #3: Preparing the Classroom
From desk placement to student homework, there is a place for everything. So, make sure you know where that place will be by creating an organized space. Once you have an organization plan, write it down. By doing this, you will help the students in your classroom know where things go and you will stay organized.
And, don’t forget to decorate. Use posters, banners, ribbons and other tools to make your classroom a pleasant place for learning. Don’t go overboard, but make sure that your classroom is inviting and stimulating.
Be purposeful with posters and bulletin boards. As teachers, we often make the mistake of feeling proud of ourselves for making awesome-looking, themed posters or bulletin boards, but then never referring to them with our students. Posters and bulletin boards are only as effective as the teacher who uses them. That said, posters and bulletin boards can be an awesome way to invest your students so long as you make sure to refer to and update them regularly. For student work boards, this is really easy if you use sheet protectors, which can also be used as whiteboards by sticking a piece of paper in them.
Now, it’s your turn in your classroom.
Take these tips and tools and make them your own. Make your classroom a place where every student can learn. By doing so, you will touch the lives of those around you. Go forth and be the best teacher you can be!
Networking is a supportive system of sharing and exchanging information and services among individuals, groups or institutions that have a mutual interest. Specifically, it is the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business. It is fundamental to note that networking is also an active development of these current business relationships.
Think for a moment. What does good networking look like? How do people act while networking? What are their attitudes? Most people would agree that a good networker is sincere, friendly and outgoing, supportive and a good listener. It isn’t just about staying in touch. It goes beyond that. A good networker is someone you want to trust and be friends with.
A business network is a type of social network which is developed to help business people connect with other managers and entrepreneurs to further each other’s business interests by forming mutually beneficial business relationships. Several prominent business networking organizations create models of networking events that, when followed, allow the business person to build new business relationships and generate business opportunities at the same time. A professional network service is an implementation of information technology in support of business networking. Chambers of Commerce and other business-oriented groups may also organize networking activities.
So, how do you apply yourself to the networking mantra?
Here’s the scenario: “You have just arrived at your weekly, cookie-cutter networking event, and after walking up to the registration table, you proceed to search across a sea of identical plastic name badges with tiny print for the one with your name and company printed on it. You’ll affix this name tag to your shirt at the least awkward angle you can finagle, and proceed into a crowded room of people all arching their necks to scope out the people worth chatting to while trying not stare at someone’s chest for too long. And most likely many have chosen to position the name tags to be hidden in the folds of jackets or flipped around entirely making them impossible to read. Good luck with that one.”
And, whether you are wearing a name tag for an event or work every day, chances are you don’t realize the impact which you are making. In social settings, name tags can level the playing field. They are also free advertising for your company. And, they inspire people to be more approachable.
We’re here to offer a perfect solution with a particular product line which facilitates networking and promotes making those meaningful connections. For many people, the idea of wearing a name tag evokes the stale idea of the epic “Hello, my name is…” variety you might find at an awkward mixer or high school reunion. But a name tag is a valuable tool and, when used in fresh and creative ways, it can be a useful tool in helping people interact with each other.
But, more importantly, we are here to offer support and trusted services to help you in your networking efforts.
Many businesses use networking as a key factor in their marketing plan. It contributes to developing a strong feeling of trust between those involved and plays a big part in raising the profile and brand of a company. Suppliers and businesses tend to source business and suppliers through their existing relationships. These relationships tend to be open, random and supportive, while those relying on hierarchical, traditionally managed approaches are closed, selective and controlling.
Step One: Always wear your name tag. It’s the key to great networking.
A name tag reminds you to be open and honest. You can’t hide behind it. And, it gets you to network, to put yourself out there, and to make new friends. It gives you the opportunity to brand yourself, your image, and your company, with honesty and trustworthiness.
Your name tag is your best friend for several reasons. A person’s name is the first thing that most people forget upon the first meeting. Without the aid of a name tag, people are less likely to approach if they don’t know or have forgotten your name.
Consider all of the commitment you have access to when wearing a name tag. Networking isn’t easy, but when you are willing to put yourself out there, others around you are apt to feel more at ease and will connect better and more frequently.
Step Two: The most important thing is to get your brand noticed.
Networking only works when you use your name tags correctly with logos, titles and names. Your name tag reflects who you are and humanizes you to others. Most people tend to judge on first impressions, especially when everyone in the room is a stranger. But, if you have a way to make yourself stand out, your brand will become recognizable. And, it helps to make others more at ease around you.
If name tags are provided at an event, use them. Don’t be a name tag snob. They are there to make greeting others easier. They reduce possible awkward moments and help you remember names gracefully.
Step Three: Talk to others and, as always, wear your name tag.
It will help you be fearless. Wearing a name tag in a room full of strangers is an invite for people to talk to you, and for you to talk to people. You don’t need someone to introduce you, so be fearless and take networking into your hands.
And remember that networking only works when you use your name tags correctly with logos, titles and names.
Business Networking
“It isn’t what you know, it’s who you know,” is an ideal we all strive to make work for our companies. Business networking is the low-cost, effective way of utilizing this expression. LinkedIn is an excellent example of this. It is a great marketing method for developing business relationships to gather sales and contacts.
The definition of network in itself reminds us that it consists of connecting lines, like a railway or canal system, which run in different directions. Especially when it comes to a business network, these lines are crucial, and without them, this system no longer exists. These lines, commonly referred to as a relationship or communication, are the most important thing to maintain a network. If you don’t have a good set of contacts, a network will fail. And a good network is created, and networking succeeds, by the application of hard work.
Lanyards, name tags, reusable badges and even signs are useful tools for any conference or convention.
And the corporate event name tag is one detail that has been overlooked too much. For years people have been dealing with this awkward situation over and over again at event after event. As such, setting the stage is just as important as attending a conference or networking event. However, there are many roadblocks along the way.
Still not convinced? Here are some creative ways to use any name tag or reusable badge to help eliminate this awkwardness.
Try omitting titles and company names. Use this as an effort to associate people more with what they love to do, or excel at, than what they do for a living. Focus on the individual.
Move beyond the work domain. Try using reusable badges with a catchphrase or other conversation starter to get people to mingle.
Incorporate a theme. It doesn’t matter what the theme is, just as long as it is geared toward getting people flowing through the masses and making those necessary connections.
Daily Networking Tips:
Remember your business cards. Start carrying business cards with you everywhere. Keep some in your wallet or purse, your car and in your pocket. Take your cards to the gym, the grocery store and even to parties. You never know who you will meet or be able to talk with. And, if you don’t have your business cards with you, an opportunity may be missed.
Join new groups. From book clubs to civic organizations, networking opportunities are everywhere. So, find a new group in your area, or stretch yourself into new areas. But, no matter what, get yourself out there. Make sure to join groups that will benefit from what you have to offer. Don’t just participate in a group because you think it sounds fun. Join somewhere that gives you back what you can give in return.
Give and get back. Networking is a two-way street. When most people network, they expect something in exchange for their contact information. Sometimes it’s as simple as an information exchange. Other times, they expect time or goods in return. And most often, they expect their business to grow. Make sure to follow up with new contacts and keep sharing information with them, and you’ll see that your effort is returned.
Be friendly and approachable. Pretend you are hosting the event. Make people feel welcome. Find out what brought them there, and see if there’s any way you can help them. Introduce them to others, make business suggestions or give them a referral. Not only will you probably make a friend, but putting others at ease eliminates self-consciousness. A side benefit: What goes around comes around. If you make an effort to help others, you’ll soon find people helping you.
Event and Convention Networking:
Set a goal. Whenever attending a meeting, convention or another event, set a goal for yourself to meet new people. With this goal in mind, greet people you have never seen before. Make it a habit to be open and welcoming to everyone. Not only will people start recognizing you, but your contact list will grow, and networking will become easier for you.
Other goals that you can set for your events include: keeping up on industry trends, connecting with peers, and looking for new business opportunities. Focus on these goals throughout the entire conference, and you’ll see your network start to grow.
Put yourself out there. Don’t sit by those you know. Find someone sitting alone and introduce yourself. Make sure you extend yourself to those around you, no matter their station or occupation. The chances are that if you’re at the same event, you’re looking for some of the same information.
If you are attending a multiple day event, sit with someone new every day. Or switch it up after breaks. Get to know as many people as you can. Be that person who exchanges information, and you’ll see that your approachability will expand. And from that, your business will flourish.
Be a leader. Don’t just attend your next conference. Get out there and get involved. Become a board member or join a committee. Volunteer your time and talents at your next event. Not only will this get you noticed by the event planners and hosts, but it will also provide those around you with the opportunity to see you lead.
Being a leader is a step to doing better business. Those who can lead stand out to others, and through this your business will not only flourish, but it will grow. Your network will expand. This also gives you a reason to reach out to others. It gets you involved and provides others a way to also get involved.
Networking isn’t always easy.
You have to extend yourself and be a leader. You may make a few mistakes as you get started, but that shouldn’t deter you. Just keep trying, and you’ll find it easier and easier to reach out and grow your contacts. And don’t forget, it’s important to remind yourself that without your contacts, your business wouldn’t be what it is now. But most importantly, remember that your contact has given you a gift. It’s the gift of communication and networking. This gift is truly the gift that keeps on giving.
