Speed dating potential clients.
I read an article recently that gave an overview of a local chamber of commerce in the USA who held a speed dating event for business owners and it got me thinking what a great idea this was. The official term used is speed networking, and it is a really interesting format that is run across the world.
The process worked like this:
- 80 professionals in attendance for a 1.5 hour event
- Each were paired up and got to have 90 seconds to interact, discuss what they did and exchange business cards
- At the end anyone who found a 'meaningful' connection could chat with their favourite and they could further their conversation
In my world, I speak with a new client connection (usually over the phone), we quickly figure out if we are a match (I can usually tell within about 60 seconds), I give them a quote (the offer), they either decline or accept my offer (the invite) and hopefully we live happily ever after.
All in all the idea was really interesting and I love the idea of doing something a little different especially when you're trying to broaden your horizons.
While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, it's something to think about for anyone out there looking to get on the new business (dating) scene.
Here's some more info for anyone that's keen - SpeedNetworking.com
For IM, it could be a good idea to do this sort of thing via video, anyone heard of something like this that is already in place??
"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work." Thomas Edison
Steve Browne, online business strategies, tips, guidance, and resources
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