For 12 years I was a wedding
photographer, which meant that 70 times a year I'd go to
large gatherings of people I didn't know. I had two
choices: stand against the wall during the reception and
just observe the people, or mingle around taking photos
and chatting with people. The latter seemed like a
better way to go about things, eh?
First I had to get over my natural
shyness (Truly! I wasn't always this gregarious!) I read
some books on networking, and while weddings weren't
really a "networking opportunity," I knew I could meet
thousands of people a year by simply saying hello, and
perhaps they'd remember me when it was time for their
photography needs.
The first year was excruciating. I
wasn't very good at casual conversation and it plain
felt weird talking to strangers. But with time and
practice it became more comfortable...and successful.
Today I apply this skill in a business
setting, easily going to conferences and association
meetings and striking up conversation with strangers.
Some people are born with the "I can talk to anyone"
gene (my grandmother was like that), but for those of us
for whom networking doesn't come easily, this audio is
dedicated to you.
VIEW
CART 
