Last year, I was at a chamber of commerce get together. They're basically all the same. You meet and greet, eat some food, listen to a speaker talk about themselves and hope you don't snore too loudly.
I like these events, except for one thing. Too many people walk around at these events like pre-programmed robots barfing their "elevator speech" all over anyone within range.
Which is why I always try to avoid the "networking" part of these events. I prefer to go straight to the food.
But this time I was exposed to a new and glorious way of networking.
I had the pleasure of meeting someone who didn't insist on telling me all about who he was and what he did. In fact he didn't even own an "elevator speech."
Instead of boring me to tears about what he did, he asked what I did.
What a crazy guy! We had a pleasant conversation. And he never did tell me what business he was in.
I like this for two reasons:
One, nobody else does it. So, when this guy does the opposite, he stands out, in a good way.
Two, I don't want to know anything about their business. Really, I don't.
Tell someone who cares. By that I mean someone you know is actually interested in what you have to offer.
Telling your story to anyone and everyone you meet is a waste of air. Because most of them are simply not interested.
As you look for ways to tell your story make sure you're telling it to the right people. Focus on those who care. They care because they want what you can do for them.
As for the rest of the people you meet, tell them a joke or better yet, ask them what they do.
You never know, you might make a new friend.
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