The Art of Schmoozing
I will admit that I find the pace that technology changes to be overwhelming. I feel as if just yesterday updating your friends involved changing your AIM away message. Now we have Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, blogs, online newsletters, etc, etc, etc. Information is instantaneous and not in short supply. Luckily, despite all the new tools at our fingertips the best method of communication remains the face-to-face meeting.
Entire courses are offered about the art of schmoozing. Roughly stated, schmoozing is the fine act of getting someone to remember you and your point of view. As an AVMA extern you will have plenty of opportunities to attend political action committee (PAC) events, fundraisers, rallies and parties. Each time you walk into an event your goals is to maintain or establish a long-term contact and convey your message to the power brokers in attendance. First impressions, networking, elevator speeches, branding – all words that describe components of this timeless process. As I near the end of my time here in DC, I thought I would share the top 5 schmoozing lessons I’ve learned or had reinforced.
1. Know your audience. If you know who will be there, do a little research. What are their goals? Which issues are currently important to their constituents? Think Google stalking someone is creepy? Don’t worry; chances are someone will be checking up on you. Best to be equally prepared.
2. Read, watch the news and be familiar with wide vary of topics, not just veterinary issues. I’ve found the ability to ask timely and intelligent questions to be more important than offering solutions.
3. First impressions occur long before your first hello. This goes with my rule of never entering an event in a bad mood. Although appearance is important, body language is crucial. You can learn a great deal from Tom Sawyer, people find happiness magnetic.
4. Contacts are important. Have your business cards ready and establish yourself as someone who is willing to help. Everyone here is very busy. You’ll be lucky to get 3 solid minutes with someone during an event; make the most of it. After exchanging business cards, make sure to follow up with an email within 24 hr.
5. There is no such thing as “off the record”. I like to describe DC as a very small city. Conversations on the subway, over drinks or even at private dinner parties are public.
Serving as an AVMA extern is an invaluable experience. The people you meet and topics you discuss are unique to DC. Although technology has offered us new tools to reach out, catch up or offer our input, there is no substitute for a firm hand shake and friendly hello.