The simple approach to powerful networking conversations

The simple approach to powerful networking conversationsThe simple approach to powerful networking conversationsEditors note This article was originallypublished in 2016.Much has been said about the life and legacy of Muhammad Ali, the boxer, activist and global icon who passed away this past week at 74 from apparent natural causes.Im sure you saw or read countless stories about the people Ali impacted on virtually every continent. Of all the well wishes and memorializing, one line stood out to me the most. Forgive me, though, because I cant track down the news link to prove its veracity. But the line appeared in a CBS news story the day after Alis death.The person said, When Ali spoke to you, he made it seem as if you were the only one in the room.zugreifbar evidence or not, I think we can agree. That sentence above sure sounds like Muhammad Ali.**Rhyme scheme in deference to the man who could float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.Innately, Ali understood the power of one-on-o ne conversation and how to build relationships. Like him, the best networkers in geschftsleben recognize that to earn someones respect, you have to give your full attention.Heres a scenario. Youre at a networking session through your local Chamber of Commerce. You find yourself face to face with a small business owner named Paul, and right away you can tell its not going to be the most scintillating conversation. Beyond that, you see other people in the room with mora clout and influence, and youd much rather talk with them.But right now, youre engaged in discussion with Paul. Channeling Muhammad Ali, you stay in the moment, face Paul directly, look him in the eyes, listen to his every word and try your best to create conversation (these six questions will help). You dont glance around the room or start messing on your phone.Your actions, then, make a small business owner feel like an industry tycoon.And like Ali, you have now made Paul feel like hes the only one in the room - no o ne else matters.No, you arent under obligation to talk with Paul the entire time. After several minutes, you have the right to say great meeting to you and then go to the bar for another drink. Ali met a lot of strangers in his life, but at some point, the conversation had to end.But the second you and Paul part ways, he thinks to himself, Wow, what a great person. He respects you because you respect him, and the interaction feeds into your overall reputation in the business community.You have proven, like Ali, youre not too good for anyone - rich, poor, successful, struggling, educated, uneducated.The person youre talking to is the only one who matters. And in networking, thats all there is to it.RIP to The Greatest.