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do you see as your key business issues at the present time?
·Where do you see the business going over the next few years?

When you meet the business owner, particularly one who has set up their own business from scratch, they will want to talk and talk. These people are self-centred egotistical entrepreneurs who have created something from nothing. They love to talk about it; I repeat, let them! You'll find out as much as you need believe me. At some stage polite people will ask about you and what you do. Don't miss the opportunity to tell them not only what you are but also how your existing clients and customers benefit from your services. Sell yourself first, services second.

If you're an accountant or solicitor that's fine, says so. But try this. "What I am is an accountant (or solicitor) but what I do is help my clients grow their business (or, what I do is help my clients sue people!).

3. Their Relationship With Their Existing Advisors or Suppliers

Now we are building to the big moment. You've found out about them, you ascertain it's your market and they know what you do. Only start to ask these series of questions if you feel you have really built rapport

"So Joe, who do you use for your advisors/ suppliers at the moment?"

The moment of truth has arrived.

Generally we're not great listeners but now is the moment for you to give it your all. Use both ears and both eyes. Watch and listen to the answer. People can lie with words but rarely with body language and tone of voice. Depending on the way they answer will help you establish whether there is an opportunity.
"My solicitor is fantastic, she’s so creative and is always so reliable".
"My accountant is okay, I don't really understand what he does, but then I’ve had nothing to compare him against."

4. Making the Next Move

Even though your aerial’s on and your radar is whirling round, keep your powder dry. I know it's hard but try to go back to the small talk.
Networking is normally done at a very special time; time normally spent with your social partner your children your friends and family. Even if you have got none of these you're stealing it from your self. Don’t waste it.
"You remember, Joe, about 10 minutes ago you said you weren't sure what your accountant actually did. How would you feel if I gave you a ring next week to find out more about your business and to explore ideas?”
Surely this is the whole reason for your being at an event? You know when you have built rapport so make your networking time effective.

Article Source: http://www.articles-galore.com

Kintish specialise in training professional individuals, companies and corporations in generating business leads via seminars, in house work groups and major events. Will Kintish has provided learning to some of the biggest names in UK finance and is in great demand as a speaker at business events.

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