Blend in
During social gatherings, you have to blend in with your surroundings and adapt. You don't want to create a ruckus, but you don't want to be a fly on the wall either. Learn to associate with others while maintaining your personality.
Don't ask for favors
One of the most common mistakes people make is appearing too eager and in dire need of professional help. But think about it: People don't gain anything from assisting helpless souls that reduce themselves to begging. They want to help confident characters that pull their own weight and simply request information and guidance.
Asking for information and tips will get you much further than asking for something to be handed to you on a silver platter. Work toward your goals, but ask for some help along the way.
Search for a mentor
Developing a mentor/student relationship can be very healthy and beneficial, as the mentor looks after his protégé and takes pleasure in guiding him. If you ask to be set on the right track, most people will be glad to help.
Always return phone calls
Asking for information and help is a two-way street. People like helping others, but they also enjoy -- and expect -- the favor to be returned. If you don't return their call, don't expect them to pick up the phone next time.
Leave on a high note
In addition to not talking too long, make sure you end the conversation on a positive note. If you crack a couple of jokes a la Jay Leno and the person seems to like you, there is no need for encores. Simply get the contact info because the show must go on.
Keep in touch
But making all these new contacts and potential allies in the corporate world, only means something if you can keep track of them and use them to their full potential.
Excerpted By: Tim Steve
2007 Shaques Publishing Inc
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