Books You Should Read If You Want To Succeed As An Entrepreneur. Smart Ways to Start and End Networking Conversations. Wise Bread Picks When I first started attending networking events, I was terrified to approach large groups of strangers. I watched some of my peers dive into these situations with ease and wondered how on earth they made it look so natural. Meanwhile, I found myself sitting awkwardly alone, clutching a cocktail and desperately brainstorming conversation topics. Fortunately, I’ve improved my networking skills over the years, and am much less likely now to stick out like a sore thumb at events. I’ve learned that the most important part of successful networking is to have a good icebreaker to start a conversation and a smooth closing statement for when you’re ready to move on.
Here are a few inside tips to help you master the art of starting and ending those tricky conversations. Opening Lines To Start a Conversation A simple introduction can transition into a solid conversation if you’re willing to share a bit about yourself right off the bat. To Make a Friend To Get Advice To Get Your Bearings. Draw your Business Model. Business Model Generation @Startup Live Munich. Tina Seelig, Stanford Technology Ventures Program - Reframing Problems. Richard Branson on When Inexperience Is an Advantage. Editor's Note: Entrepreneur Richard Branson regularly shares his business experience and advice with readers. What follows is the latest edited round of insightful responses.
Ask him a question and your query might be the inspiration for a future column. Q: I am a first-time entrepreneur entering the business arena. When I am asked what previous experience I have in this field, how should I answer? -- Jeyanth Krishnan, India A: Virgin's history shows that a lack of experience does not have to be a liability -- it can be an asset. It is something you should play up when you discuss your ideas with prospective investors, partners and employees, rather than directing the conversation toward your other strengths. From the first days of my career as an entrepreneur, I have always used my own and my team's lack of experience to our advantage. No matter which industry you are planning to enter, you will almost certainly find that the same holds true for you.
Doug Richard part 1 | Smarta video interview. Entrepreneurs can change the world - Grasshopper.