Networking can be an interesting activity if we let it be.  One problem that is quite common during most networking events is the lack of appealing information.  During the introduction segment of the event, the majority of participants stands and delivers their routine 30-second “elevator speech.”  Sadly, they give nearly the same dialogue each time, which week after week, month after month and year after year, and this can be monotonous.

An added issue to this repetitive problem is the fact that it is difficult to “connect” with someone’s business.  Unless you do the same thing, or need that exact product or service mentioned, the chances that you will have something in common with the speaker’s commerce activity is slim to none.

My suggestion is quite simple.  Add something personal to your introduction.  Take eight seconds of your allotted time and tell the group something interesting about your family, your hobbies, your movie preferences, etc.  Give the audience some background on why you chose your vocation or where you sprouted from.  Allow the other members of the group to attach to you and have a reason to relate to you.  Pretend you have on a Velcro coat, and everyone in the room is a sock!  Who is going to stick to you? 

“My name is Ed.  I sell top-of-the-line golf clubs.  I was born in Alaska and I like to fish.”

Who is going to bond, fix, link to you?  We are all looking for is a common subject to set the stage for a conversation.  Real, genuine connections are the lifeblood of networking.  Give your fellow networkers something to work with.  Put on your Velcro.