I spent the last weekend in Chicago, attending a business development basics training. Â Despite being over the weekend, it was well-attended by some truly impressive people and I surprised at how much I really took away. Â Here are some of the most memorable lessons-learned that can help anyone in any situation.
- Always, always, always have business cards on hand. Â Wear a garment that has pockets, and stash a small pile in it for easy reach. Â You will meet people, and you’ll want their cards as much as they want yours.
- When shaking hands with people, spread your fingers before making hand-to-hand contact. Â This ensures that the nook between your thumb and finger meets the nook of the person whose hand you’re shaking and a strong handshake. Â There is nothing I hate more than a limp handshake. Â Try this trick the next time you’re shaking hands. Â It’s pretty neat.
- Collecting business cards are great, but if you don’t follow up with people they are useless.  Shoot a thank-you e-mail within a week of meeting these people, especially if they’ll be a useful business contact in the future.  I like to have a question to ask in the follow-up email to keep the conversation going.  Without follow-up, you’re just another random name on  some card that’s collecting dust in a stack of cards.
- Never, ever, EVER read from slides. Â I absolutely loathe when presenters read from the PowerPoint slides verbatem. Â Keep the slides simple, and elaborate on the points stated on them. Â (Most) people can read, so don’t tell them what’s clearly defined in front of them.
- Be dynamic when you present. Â Stand tall, walk around a bit, ask if there are questions or comments, use hand gestures. Â There is nothing worse than static presenters.
These tips and tricks definitely have helped me, and I hope they help you! Â What are some of your effective business tips?
