An Affair to Remember Representing Yourself – and
Business – at Social Functions
By Valarie M. Roberts
Networking is the social art of meaningful mixing. Charity balls and galas are examples of events that provide opportunities to make new friends, secure clients or broaden career horizons. Interacting with new people seems to come naturally to some individuals, while it creates anxiety in others. No matter where you fall on that scale, mastering networking techniques can make you feel much more comfortable.
Studies have shown that people form their first impressions of new contacts – and, by association, their companies – within the first five seconds of meeting them. Therefore, it is important to prepare for the event. Find out what companies will be there and who will be representing them. Read recent articles about their business so you can confidently join in conversations. Also, have a game plan on how to approach people and have different topics to discuss.
At the gathering, employ good eye contact and a strong handshake. It only takes one hand to make a proper handshake. A two-handed handshake or handshake with an elbow grab is to show sympathy and is reserved for funerals only. Limp handshakes may be interpreted as weakness or indecisiveness. On the other hand, too firm of a grip may indicate aggressiveness. If someone squeezes your hands upon an introduction, it is acceptable to release the handshake early.
Rules to follow
Regarding gender differences, men should have a slightly looser grip when shaking hands with females than they do with other males. In addition, a woman can make her hand seem larger and more substantial when shaking hands with a male by extending her hand with the index finger separated slightly from her middle finger.
In business, gender and age are irrelevant. Thus, etiquette dictates that you should always shake the hand of the most important person, which is always the client, first. Importance then is determined by rank in the company (e.g., president, vice president and so forth).
Worldwide, the left hand is known as our dirty hand. This is the hand we should use for covering our coughs and sneezes. Consequently, handshaking should only be done with the right hand. When networking opportunities arise, be conscious of holding drinks in your right hand to avoid offering a cold, wet hand to a client. Briefcases and other items should also be carried in your left hand to prevent you from fumbling around if someone offers his or her hand to you.
A few other things to remember concerning handshakes are to always stand when approached for a handshake. This shows respect and makes the individual you’re meeting feel important. Finally, avoid shaking hands across a table or any other impediment.
Be prepared
A strong, professional handshake won’t gurantee that you make a favorable impression. Describe your job clearly and always have a business card with you. Consider the request for a business card as a compliment. Not having one with you is subtly offensive. It puts both you and the person requesting the card in an embarrassing situation. And it nonverbally tells your prospect that you're not quite the business person they thought.
Everyone likes to talk about themselves, so ask a lot of questions and listen with interest. If you’re wearing a name tag (which should be placed on the right shoulder), make sure it contains accurate information and is visible. Everyone is impressed with someone that can remember names. Practice remembering them by repeating the name three times in a sentence. An example: “Hello Bill. It’s nice to finally meet you, Bill. Tell me, what is it you do at the car dealership, Bill?” Last, don’t sit down. The best way to feel isolated is by separating yourself from the rest of the group. Besides, how can you circulate if you are seated?
Your work continues after the function ends. Even as soon as when you get to your car, take notes about the outing. Whose names do you want to remember? What subjects did you discuss? Did you promise to send information to anyone? Write follow-up letters or make phone calls to people you met. Remind them of who you are and notable things you talked about.
Be prepared and have fun!
Author: Valarie M. Roberts is founder and instructor of Table Manners for Kids and the etiquette columnist for 14wfie.com in Evansville. She was trained and certified in business, social and dining etiquette at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. She can be contacted at (270) 683-3466 or www.tablemannersforkids.com
An Affair to Remember