There you are at a conference or other DJ-related event, taking in all the education, checking out all the latest technology and enjoying the entertainment. Well, I salute you for being there, in person, at a networking event, continuing your education and creating connections. People who actually attend conferences and networking events have a higher chance of developing real and longer lasting relationships. THREE SIMPLE TIPS FOR BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS AT DJ EVENTS You may have heard from other DJ professionals "the best education is in the hallways” and it’s true!
The connections and relationships I have fostered at industry conferences here in the US, like Mobile Beat, ArmDJs, Midwest DJs Live, Wedding MBA and WeddingWire World, have helped accelerate my business. Hopefully one day I'll make it to the Pro Mobile Conference in the UK and level up my game with you. I look forward to these events every year because they are a reunion of friends as well as an opportunity to help my business. How can relationships accelerate your business you ask?
For one tapping into other professionals who have more experience and insight has really helped me. I have been able to go to events and meet fellow DJs who have different insights in the business, performance and industry, that I don’t. I create friendships and we end up sharing ideas that help both our businesses grow. I also end up taking workshops or getting educational DVDs or books from these leading industry professionals, which help me improve what I do.
Finally, we often have the opportunity to collaborate on future events. Yes, collaborate! I have worked with multiple DJs from around the world on join projects and it is great. However, the best thing is being able to do this with DJs in my own community.
That is why I am an advocate of associations like the American Disc Jockey Association here in the US, as well as SEDA and NADJ in the UK. Believe it or not, there is enough work for everyone! Sometimes your competitors can’t do it all so they want to refer clients to fellow professionals they know, like and trust. So how do we get people to know us, like us and trust us?
Through networking of course! But don’t look at other people as potential transactions, they will see right through that, which leads me to my first networking tip: AVOID RELATIONSHIP ARROGANCE When you walk into a room and are looking to connect with people, avoid looking at them as a transactional relationship. I have done this before. I have gone to conferences looking for ‘the movers and the shakers’ .
Looking for the guys in the suits with the gold watches. In the past I have placed a projected value of return on certain people while overlooking others who could be a great connection and friend. I was once introduced to a DJ who I initially overlooked because he was just wearing one of his branded t-shirts. “A t-shirt DJ?!” I thought, "he wouldn’t have anything to offer me. " How arrogant was I?
Once I struck up a conversation with him I was able to tap into his brilliance, but I was at first closed off to the idea because of my arrogance. I have been friends with the DJ ever since and we have collaborated and shared many an idea. Look beyond what is on the outside and find ways to connect on a human level. TR Y TO BE INTERESTED NOT INTERESTING This is a strategy that I have learned from a mentor and coach of mine, Ty Bennet, who is a professional speaker who speaks on the power of influence.
When you strike up a conversation in a networking atmosphere don’t dominate the conversation and talk all about yourself and about how amazing you are. If the question is asked, go right ahead, but nothing turns me off more than when someone thinks they have something to prove and tries to sell me on them self. You may have heard the old adage ‘he who speaks first loses’ . It’s true, I am always more interested in people and learning about them and what makes them tick.
Talking about someone’s ‘why’ is always more interesting than the weather or what technology they use. Dive into their lives and why they do what they do. Ask questions. This always leads to more authentic conversations and connections.
Be interested in learning about the people you connect with and don’t make it all about you. DON’T TALK ABOUT RELIGION AND POLITICS This is something that should be a no brainer but I see it and hear it all the time, especially on Facebook. There are people I’d rather keep at arm’s length because of the way they behave on Facebook. When I meet them in person they are delightful, we don’t talk politics and I like to keep it that way.
I wish it was the same way on Facebook! I get it, you are passionate about politics or your faith, but we may not see eye to eye and that may damage the potential business relationship we may have. Find subject matter that both parties can relate to, either personally or on a business level. I hope these tips will help accelerate the connections you make at your next conference, exhibition, DJ meeting or networking event.
By the time you get home you will have more connections and more resources to tap into. Creating a better DJ community through relationships, collaboration and understanding is always a win / win!
