Becoming an exceptional networker takes a lot of hard work. The good news is The Verbal Edge makes it simple and guides you and/or your company or organization’s teams through every step—steps that include skills other networkers are not even aware of!
At The Verbal Edge, we equip our individual clients and workshop participants with skills and techniques to excel in the networking process, confidently initiating conversations, engaging others, and cultivating professional relationships.
Founded by Communication Skills Advisor and Networking Skills Trainer Elizabeth MacDonald in 2009, The Verbal Edge is located in St. Petersburg, Florida, and Fort Wayne, Indiana. Elizabeth provides in-person customized networking skills training in Indiana, Florida, and nationwide. All networking workshops and consultations are dedicated to professionals making lasting impressions with their cutting-edge skills and, of course, the Verbal Edge they will have over others!
If you are looking for a qualified communication skills and networking skills trainer in central Florida, and the Fort Wayne, Indiana area, Elizabeth is that person. By coaching professionals in virtual customized consultations or partnering and collaborating with companies and organizations to create and present customized workshops, Elizabeth empowers individuals and groups to navigate any networking situation with confidence and finesse.
Here are some of the invaluable Networking Training Skills Elizabeth teaches in her highly interactive customized networking workshops and individual consultations:
- Stand Out With Confidence
As you step into the room, let your presence speak volumes. Stand tall, wear a genuine smile, and artfully articulate your name and business to make a lasting impression. That’s the first step to being memorable. Introduce yourself slowly, strongly, and clearly, pausing between your first and last name. And follow this with your business’ name. The same delivery applies: slowly, loudly, and clearly—People need to hear every syllable. This simple yet effective technique ensures your name and the name of your business are foremost in their minds.
- Merging Into Conversations
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you needed to approach someone deeply engrossed in a conversation with two or three others? In such a situation, the best way is to patiently wait a couple of feet away—out of earshot—for the people to widen their circle and invite you in. Your waiting patiently demonstrates respect for the people in the group and their need to finish the point they were making, and it positions you as someone who values meaningful interactions.
- Initiating Conversations
When you take the initiative to start a conversation, you automatically exude confidence. Choose questions that elicit fascinating answers—answers that both you and the other person will enjoying talking about. The workshop covers how to create those questions.
- Name Badges/Tags: Professional Essentials And Conversation Prompts
First, always wear a name badge or tag. You don’t want the people with whom you are conversing to be uncomfortable or distracted because they can’t remember your name. The convenient advantage of name badges/tags is that they continually remind both people of one another’s names so you and the other person can use those names throughout the conversation. On that badge or tag, you need to display your first AND last name, your title, and your company’s name or logo. And if it’s the first time you’re meeting, your completed name badge and their name badge often provide prompts for initial, fascinating questions.
- Engaging The Other Person
Captivate the other person with intentional, fascinating questions that not only engage that person but also yourself. Elizabeth will equip you and/or your teams to interact confidently with others. She will also teach what is involved in asking fascinating questions. One tip is to ask questions containing superlatives (most, least, words ending in ‘est”). You and the other person answering your questions will be amazed!
- Smile And Stand
A simple smile can go a long way in communicating confidence, likeability, and connection.
Smile and stand when introducing yourself to a group at a networking event, conference, or social gathering when everyone is asked to identify themselves. Standing improves projection: your diaphragm is less restricted. Standing typically places you at a higher vantage point, lessening physical obstructions and making it easier for others in the room to see you. That visibility enhances the connection between you and the audience, which leads to your greater confidence and the audience’s engagement and attentiveness.
- Express Interest
During conversations, express genuine interest in the other person’s experiences and perspectives. Asking engaging and interesting questions fosters a deeper connection. Respectfully request their business card, and ask if they would like your card. Instead of automatically putting the card in your pocket or purse, look at it for a couple of seconds and make a comment. That card represents who they are and what they do. Finally, if appropriate, express a sincere interest in reconnecting.
- Impressive Virtual Presence
Networking is also now part of our virtual experience. In today’s digital age, mastering virtual communication is crucial. Bring your in-person charm to the virtual space—a space that has its own rules. Here are two of them: Maintain lens contact. When you do, you will automatically be maintaining excellent eye contact. Frame your eyes in the upper third of the frame. If you don’t, the other attendees will subconsciously see you as incompetent. This is where Elizabeth’s broadcasting background becomes essential. She will work with you to ensure you project the most confident and competent presence possible.
- Master Communication Skills And Business Networking Skills With The Verbal Edge!
At The Verbal Edge , we believe that effective communication skills and networking skills are the cornerstone of professional success. Join us in this journey of honing your abilities and unlocking new opportunities. Whether you are in Florida or Indiana, our networking skills training program empowers you and/or your company or organization with skills that make a difference. If you live elsewhere, please know that Elizabeth also travels to present customized workshops and she offers individual virtual consultations Start your journey with us today. Let’s partner and collaborate to build a foundation for lasting professional connections and success!
Call us at (260) 433-3734 . We’d love to hear from you.