The 20-Minute networking Meeting — by Nathan Perez & Marcia Ballinger
I came across this book as I was searching for something to read over the weekend.
As I started reading the book, this caught my eye “ The 20-Minute Networking Meeting” is rooted in two core values: Collaboration and Community. We believe that a successful organization (and a successful individual!) needs to care about a wide variety of constituencies and stakeholders and to treat each with concern and respect”. This is very much true in our daily life, we move forward with tasks or relationships only by collaboration and participation with our surroundings.
I feel that this is a must-read book for anyone who recently graduated or a professional trying to expand their network. The book starts with two examples of how networking was carried by two individuals. One of the stories highlights the importance of giving and take. When we reach out to someone, we always think of how that person can help us with our needs(ex: Getting a job, mentoring), what this example highlighted how can we help the other person by having this meeting.
“Listening is learning, and networking is give-and-take. Don’t be tempted to talk all about yourself or what you’re in need of”.
The Networking meeting can be used to gather new information( perhaps new job roles), add contacts to your list, and build relationships over time. Another important aspect the book mentions is how does the other person feels when you ask for a meeting? The time someone gives you is a gift they are offering from their side. How often do you do think in that perspective?
Also, don’t get bogged down because you don’t have a network, everyone starts at some point. Being mentally ready for meetings is one thing, also understanding that the other person is not obligated to give you feedback during these meetings is another one.
The 20-Minute Networking Meeting consists of five parts:
(i)Great First Impression(2–3 min)
Preparation before the meeting is a must. Also, making a first impression by expressing your gratitude, having an agenda, and being unafraid to lead the discussion is essential. The key thing is how you conduct with this person can either help you to get more contacts or none at all — The first Impression matters a lot!
(ii) Great Overview(1 min)
It might be a challenge at first to give a summary about yourself within one minute, but the idea is to give a general sense of what you have done. There are good examples of how to summarize your experience in the book.
(iii)Great Discussion(12–15min)
At the Core of the meeting, do your thorough research on the person and the company/work they do. Don’t ask questions about the available information. The aim is to make the meeting effective in the time available and also presenting yourself that you are well prepared. There are five key questions around which the discussion revolves. The last question(how can I help you) requires ample preparation and thorough research. This is the most important question as it can leave a lasting impression about you on the other person. Great advice from the book: “Be different, bring an attitude of helpfulness”.
(iv)Great Ending(2 min)
This is where you review any action items and express gratitude to the other person.
(v)Great Follow-Up(After the meeting)
The book rightly points out the timing: “Don’t let more than twenty-four hours pass before sending a thank-you follow-up. Much longer makes it seem like an afterthought!”
Also, the last pages of the book has some great tips and a 20-minute networking meeting Cheat Sheet to practice.
