This secret is based on the idea that networking is about developing connections that value you.

Don’t take your business cards to live networking events.

That’s right.

Here’s why.

By not having a business card you get leverage. You can now ask for someone’s card and get permission to contact them at the same time. Why would they give you permission, so they can get your contact information?

That conversation leads to a situation where they are actually waiting to hear from you – they have some anticipation.

This anticipation isn’t normally present when you simply exchange cards.

Or if it is, it’s the opposite of what has happen here. If you have given your card and told someone you’re going to call them, the chances are it is with the idea of telling them about your business. That’s not the same, that’s a sales call.

By not having any cards to pass out you put yourself in complete control of the conversation.

If you have found out what this person needs and wants, you can now follow up with something of value, say a resource or another contact.

When your follow up call is all about delivering some value to them and NOT about your business, you’ll develop reciprocity in your new contact.

They will see you as a valuable connection and put you in a separate category from all the other folks who are simply following up to get business.

I will have more on this method in the future.