Networking on Planes and Trains

 

When you are in transit is an optimal time to practice your networking skills. First of all, the person doesn’t know you yet, so he or she has no preconceived notions of who you are and how you should behave. Second, you are in public, so if something goes astray, you can get away quickly. Third, something wonderful might happen. Here are some guidelines to help you maximize these situations:

 

• Carry a book and have it visible. When you first talk to someone, this indicates that you have something else to do and won’t necessarily talk his or her ear off. Also, if the person turns out to be boring, you can begin reading right away.
• When you sit down, smile and say hello.
• Ask if he or she is heading to a meeting or heading home.
• Respect the person’s personal space.
• Watch the person’s body language—if the person shifts away from you, it’s a sign that she or he wants to be left alone.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Source: The Networking Survival Guide by Diane Darling, 2003