In this episode, hosts Merv Jersak and Tim Jerome explore advanced strategies for project managers focusing on effective skills for working rooms in any type of venue. They discuss treating networking as a game, utilizing local news for conversation starters, and crafting impactful introductions. Key topics include strategic use of name tags, the role of body language, active listening, and maintaining genuine interest in conversations. They also share techniques for remembering names, bridging conversations, and leaving lasting impressions, both in-person and virtual settings. Listeners will learn practical tips for handling various social settings and improving their professional networking skills.
Main Take-Aways
Practical tips, tools, and techniques for developing and utilizing your ability to work a room:
1) make a game of it
2) read the local newspapers
3) craft short introductions to stimulate conversation
4) arrive early
5) wear name tags strategically
6) pay attention to body language
7) be completely focused on the individual you are interacting with
8) listen actively and recognize the individual
9) note personal details
10) be real
11) overcome forgetting names
12) listen with your whole face
13) keep your camera on in video conferences
14) smile when on phone calls
15) learn the art of small talk
16) provide creative gifts for kickoff participants
17) dress to fit in with the event
18) be sensitive to the culture of the organization
19) learn how to extricate yourself from conversations
20) interact with few rather than the many
Show Notes
Today’s Project Managers Coffee Chat: Tips, Tools, and Techniques for Working Any Room
01:03 Tim provides the first tip suggesting that you make a game of working the room – not for the mechanical process of collecting business cards, but for having purposeful interactions.
02:32 Merv recommends that you read the local newspaper, no matter the city you are in for the networking event, to help with conversations with local individuals.
03:53 Merv then offers a different approach to crafting introductions that are more effective than the overused elevator speech technique.
05:23 Merv advises you to arrive at the event early to get the “lay of the land”.
06:30 Merv gives some tips on the importance of name tags, both in where they are positioned and what information they contain.
08:19 Tim suggests that you pay attention to body language, especially nuanced body language. Merv piggybacks on that thought by insisting upon complete engagement with the person you are interacting with.
09:45 Tim reminds you of the importance of active listening and the power of recognition in networking.
10:14 Merv uses a technique of noting peoples’ personal details for potential reference in future interactions.
11:00 Tim wants you to present yourself exactly as who you are.
12:01 Merv and Tim offer ideas on overcoming the forgotten name syndrome.
13:53 Merv presents a concept of listening with your whole face; that is, be expressive. Tim extends that concept by recommending that you keep your camera on when in virtual meetings, to which Merv adds that you smile when speaking on a telephone call.
15:15 Merv states that small talk leads to big talk, to bug opportunities; so, master the ability to engage in small talk.
16:47 Merv recommends using some small gift items for each participant to create a favorable impression which leads to better engagement.
17:26 Merv also recommends that you dress appropriately for whatever networking event you attend.
18:05 Tim reminds you to be sensitive to the culture of the organization.
18:25 Merv offers ideas on how to extricate yourself from a conversation.
19:16 Tim adds that it is more effective to interact with only a few individuals rather than large groups.
