MARCH PROGRAM REVIEW
HOW TO WORK A ROOM
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In planning a successful networking experience, there are seven guidelines that everyone should adhere to:

• Positive Attitude
• Focus on Benefits
• Plan Your Introduction
• Have an Appropriate Number of Business Cards
• Prepare Small Talk
• Make Eye Contact and Smile
• Good Handshake.

It is important to remember that any of the above measures could possibly be the marker of a successful or unsuccessful networking experience.

Attendees at the Backstage Lounge at the Mahaffey Theatre in downtown St. Petersburg learned additional guidelines and strategies throughout the seminar with regard to networking skills. Questions such as “When is it appropriate to give someone your business card” and “How do you exit a conversation?” were among several questions asked by the audience.

The final 10 tips offered for Power Networking by the presenters were:

• Networking is about being genuine and building trust
• Good networking is goal-oriented
• Seek varied networking opportunities
• Volunteer
• Spark conversation with open-ended questions
• Emphasize your strengths
• Articulate the things that make you different
• Know what you need
• Follow-through on referrals
• Follow-through with new contacts.

All of the skills outlined, according to Phoenix and Rebeca, should give everyone the formula for networking successfully and the skills to turn every opportunity into a networking one.

CHAPTER SECRETARY WANTED

Our Chapter is seeking a Secretary. This position will primarily be responsible for attending monthly Board meetings and programs, taking minutes and distributing them to members. It's a great way to become more familiar with FPRA, our chapter and to make great contacts! If interested, please call Scott Taylor at 813-238-1200 or write him at scott@taylorcompany-fl.com.