Business Mixer Tips

I attended a local business mixer last night and reconnected with some old friends and met a few new ones too. My night was a success- I had a great time, good conversation, picked up some useful information (how to use Twitter) and was introduced to some new interesting people.

That's what's supposed to happen, right? Unfortunately it doesn't go quite so well for everyone.

There was a guy at the mixer last night that I have known for several years, but who was not as well-known to some of my other acquaintances. He came over to talk with me and another colleague and, right off the bat, I knew he wasn't doing himself any favors. He badmouthed the organization hosting the event as well as several other people in the room. His negative attitude made a terrible first impression and once he left, I heard several "what's that guy's deal?" types of remarks.

His professional reputation probably took a hit last night and it will take some time to rebuild. To avoid this in the future, consider these useful tips for making the most out of your night at a business mixer:

1. Leave your (bad) attitude at home. If you had a bad day, consider staying home, or change your outlook before you walk in the door. No one likes a downer and it just makes you look bad when you complain or badmouth others. You know the old saying, "If you can't say something nice..."

2. Be welcoming. It doesn't matter if you're hosting the event or attending as a guest, but act like a host. Approach shy people who appear to be by themselves. Introduce your contacts to new people. If you've had a positive experience with someone, be sure to mention it when introducing them to someone new.

3. Be a connector. Putting people together is one of my favorite things- it's sort of like being a business contact matchmaker. I never know how the relationship will work out, but I generally have a good instinct about what types of people might enjoy working together. A friend of mine is a sales rep for a large moving company in Boston. One of his best sources of referrals is real estate agents. Last night, I was able to introduce him to the director of a large real estate agency that he had never met before. This could be a huge opportunity for him and I was proud to make the connection- it's a win-win for everyone involved.

4. Have an objective. Maybe your objective for the event is to meet a certain person or a certain type of occupation. Maybe your objective is to promote your new book or blog. It could be to promote a sale or new line of business. It could simply be to learn something new. Of course, it could be to get free beer and some scallops wrapped in bacon. Whatever it is, make sure you have one before you enter the room.

And, of course, don't act like a "sales weasel." Yes, most of the people in the room are there to get more business, but you don't have to act so hungry. Ask them what they do first. And I generally only hand out business cards when asked.

Good luck!