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Most networkers waste their time (here's why)
Published 12 days ago • 3 min read
Hello Reader, Two marketing consultants walked into the same networking luncheon. They both invested $150 for tickets. They both spent the same afternoon at the event. The room was filled with the same people - potential hiring managers, clients, and mentors.
One walked out with nothing. The other landed a $2,000 monthly retainer - and two referrals within 90 days.
The difference wasn't charm, charisma, or even experience.
It was preparation.
Sarah rushed in late, gave a forgettable introduction ("I do marketing for small businesses"), and immediately started pitching her services. When a restaurant owner mentioned struggling with repeat customers, Sarah was too busy thinking about her next talking point to really listen.
She collected six business cards. Sent generic LinkedIn requests. Got zero responses.
David? He spent 25 minutes the night before researching who'd be there. He arrived early, strategically chose his seat, and crafted a specific introduction: "I help restaurants turn a $30 lunch customer into a $300 monthly customer."
When that same restaurant owner mentioned the repeat customer challenge, David asked follow-up questions. He listened. He offered a free audit with no strings attached.
His follow-up email wasn't generic - it referenced their specific conversation and included a relevant case study.
Three months later: three new clients from that one business luncheon.
Same event. Same opportunities. Completely different strategy.
This is what we'll be diving into at Hello to Sold on February 26th - the strategic preparation that separates networkers who collect business cards from those who build actual business.
What You'll Learn
Morning Session (9:00-10:30 AM) - Network Like a Leader Led by Trina Boos (me), Boost Academy of Excellence.
The three pillars of networking preparation that most people completely miss
How to work a room strategically (not just "show up and hope")
The WAVE method for never running out of conversation topics
Why your personality type is your networking superpower, not a limitation
After a coffee break with light refreshments (10:30-10:45 AM):
Second Session (10:45 AM-12:15 PM) - From New Lead to Closing Led by Paul Doucet, Sandler Systems
What to do with warm leads from networking events
The follow-up strategies that actually get responses
How to advance conversations without feeling pushy or salesy
The communication pitfalls that kill promising connections
"I attended Trina Boos' 'Network Like a Boss' workshop, and it was a game-changer. As someone who's not naturally outgoing - especially at large networking events where I don't know anyone - I was initially hesitant. But by the end of the session, I felt a surge of confidence.
Trina's training helped me realize that many others share the same fears. Thanks to her guidance, I became comfortable stepping out of my comfort zone, and that confidence opened doors to valuable connections that have directly contributed to my business's growth."
— Sara Gregory, Partner, Recruiting in Motion
"Opened My Eyes to Real Networking"
"That was a fantastic workshop! I realized I had never taken networking seriously and had been far too passive, achieving minimal success at best. Thank you for sharing valuable networking etiquette - I recognize I've been guilty of some mistakes in the past. I will definitely refer others to your program."
— Devon Jones, Sunlite Mortgage
Did You Listen to Last Week's Podcast?
Last week, I launched a new episode: "I Lost My Dream Job Because of One Email."
Fresh out of college, I nailed an interview with a VP of Marketing at one of Canada's most prominent job search websites. The job was practically mine... until I sent a "strongly worded" follow-up email after three weeks of waiting. That one emotional message cost me the opportunity.
This episode shares three practical strategies that will save you from making the same costly mistake when managing frustration and communicating professionally.
Available on Boosted – from Unpolished to Promoted, wherever you get your podcasts.
I hope these insights help you communicate more professionally - and I look forward to sharing even more networking strategies with you on February 26th at Hello to Sold.
Subscribe for tips on handling workplace challenges, building communication and social skills, and exclusive course updates. Hear success stories from professionals, perfect for young professionals and leaders aiming to sharpen their skills and foster respect.
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