Interview with Calin Rabbit - Professional Public Speaker, Corporate Consultant & Trainer

Romanian champion at Public Speaking in 2011, Calin is an IT-ist becoming a public speaker and certified trainer. He is a facilitator and trainer Bootcamp University, Elite School and one of the founders of the first public speaking club in Romania: Timisoara Toastmasters.

"I guide business people to have real impact on others. They do this through the communities I coordinate and through speeches, workshops, trainings, consulting and mentoring sessions."

1. What is the most important ability that someone should develop in order to excel in networking?

If you want to become a master of networking, the secret is to ask good questions and become a good listener! If the questions start the conversation and give you the chance to find relevant information, the active listening helps you connect to a deeper level.

It is about being present in the conversation, about showing that you really care. People love to feel listened to and understood, so this combination of asking good questions and listening is the key to building solid and authentic relationships.

2. How do you prepare before participating in a networking event to maximize opportunities?

To shine at a networking event, training is essential! I find out who will participate and set clear goals. I also have a short and captivating pitch elevator about me and my business and a set of interesting questions to initiate conversations and find out relevant information about others. And, there is one more thing, I come with a very good energy and a wide smile so that I make a first memorable impression.

3. How do you manage to maintain contact with long -term networking networks, even when you are very busy?

We all know that it can be difficult to maintain contact when you are busy, but it is possible! I have a regular follow-up system, whether it's emails, occasional meetings or messages on social media.

I use social media platforms to interact with those in my contact network, distribute relevant content and comment on the posts for me. I also take care to maintain the very important relationships through telephone conversations or lunch or coffee.

4. What are the most common mistakes you notice in people trying to make up and how can they be avoided?

On the 1st place is without just and maybe, "aggressive sale"! Focus on building the relationship, not just promoting your products or services. The second common mistake is the lack of follow-up. After a networking event, make sure you send a thank you message and set the following steps for collaboration.

5. What advice do you have for those who are introverted and find difficult networking?

For introverts, networking may seem intimidating, but it doesn't have to be! If you are an introvert, start with small steps, participating in smaller events. Prepare some questions or conversation topics in advance to reduce anxiety. Practice online networking through social media platforms. They are a more comfortable alternative to you.

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