Networking for Success | Theresa Reaume | TEDxWindsor

Summary

Theresa Reaume presents networking as a marketing tool for building a personal brand and business relationships—and, over time, creating business opportunities. Networking is a learnable skill, but it depends on building trust rather than trying to close sales at an event.

Networking playbook

• Read the room and use welcoming body language. Open, semicircular groups are often an invitation to join. Avoid interrupting people having an intense, face-to-face conversation. Keep your own posture approachable.
• Use “lateral networking.” Start with open-ended who, what, where, when, why, and how questions. Connect through shared interests—such as sports, travel, books, music, or movies—to build common ground before discussing business.
• Bring value to conversations. Stay informed about business trends and current events so you can contribute when relevant. If you hope to meet someone, research them beforehand to identify possible common interests.
• Focus on relationships, not sales. Avoid pushing for a close at networking events. Build rapport and trust; business may follow as your credibility grows.
• Be memorable for the right reasons. Arrive on time, dress appropriately, act professionally, and attend to small details, such as having fresh breath.
• Follow up consistently. Connect on LinkedIn, share a useful article, send a card, or arrange a coffee meeting. Follow-up sustains credibility and can create future opportunities.

The VCP framework

Reaume shares the VCP process, attributed to networking expert Ivan Misner:

1. Visibility: Attend networking events, join referral groups, and volunteer in the community.
2. Credibility: Build trust over time through reliability, professionalism, and appropriate conduct.
3. Profitability: Business opportunities can develop after visibility and credibility are established.

Metrics and timeline

No numerical KPIs or specific targets are given. The talk emphasizes that building credibility and achieving business results take time.

People mentioned

Theresa Reaume, Ivan Misner (referred to in the subtitles as Ivan Meisner), Zig Ziglar, and Christine Lynch.