How to turn networking from
from scary to fun with
the three-foot rule

“How to turn networking from scary to fun with the three-foot rule” is the twelfth episode of the miniseries “Generating Leads—the highest quality for your business” and involves a skill that can be the most fun thing you do in business outside of making the big bucks!

However, networking is a nightmare when you inadvertently appear pushy or salesy while talking to strangers about your business. That’s why podcasts like this episode are so important.

Today, I will share a fun and effective way to enhance the networking skills category known as the three-foot rule. This episode will show you how networking goes from being a nightmare to an enjoyable experience that can be part of your daily routine. Let’s get started!

Three-Foot Rule Story

Below, you will learn the why and how of the very effective three-foot rule.  But first, this story.

I first learned the three-foot rule to generate prospects when I had no choice but to arrive a day early on a business trip to another city.  This allowed me to settle in, visit local sites, and enjoy myself while meeting lots of new potential prospects along the way.

I then learned an even better way to use the three-foot rule: joining activities I enjoyed.  Not only would I have fun, but I would meet people I could bond with quickly. For instance, if I had enough free time, why not play pick-up basketball at a local gym?

Did this go over well with my wife? Sure. She was happy to see me motivated to exercise!!

Another way I made this fun was by playing a little game with myself. I kept five pennies in a pocket, and every time I introduced myself to someone new, I switched a penny from one pocket to the other. Making five new contacts per day meant I would find one or two good prospects, which was a fun way of approaching what can be daunting.

If I were on my way home for the evening and still had a penny left in my initial pocket, I would stop at a gas station, a convenience store, or call a customer service number. This way, I would keep my self-imposed quota and feel like I won versus procrastinating!

Understanding the Three-Foot Rule

So, what exactly is the three-foot rule? The three-foot rule suggests you can and should converse with anyone nearby. This concept is about taking advantage of proximity to build spontaneous connections. The beauty of the three-foot rule is its simplicity and ability to make networking feel less daunting.

But why is the three-foot rule beneficial? A few reasons:

1. By talking to them, it changes how people perceive you. If you are open and willing to chat, people are more likely to engage with you. 
2. Spontaneous connections lead to unexpected opportunities. 
3. Your friendliness can reduce your anxiety and your prospect’s uneasiness, which is why it’s critical to practice your networking skills until your approach is natural.

Creative Strategies to Make Networking Fun

Let’s dive deep into some creative strategies to make networking and using the three-foot rule fun. One great way to break the ice is through fun icebreaker questions. Instead of asking what they do, try something like, “If you could have any superpower, what would it be?” This question not only sparks interesting conversations but also makes you memorable.

Another strategy is to gamify your networking. Set personal challenges, like meeting five new people at an event, and reward yourself when you achieve your goal. You can also use interactive games like networking bingo, where you check off boxes for meeting people with specific characteristics.

Using props and tools can also add an element of fun. Consider wearing a unique name tag or using conversation starter cards. These little touches can make a big difference in making you approachable and engaging.

Real-Life Examples and Success Stories

Let’s hear some real-life examples of how the three-foot rule has made networking fun and effective. I remember a story from a conference I attended last year. One attendee, Sally, used the three-foot rule by initiating conversations with anyone who came near the coffee station. She turned this simple strategy into a game, setting a goal to meet 10 new people by the end of the day. Not only did she achieve her goal, but she also made some valuable business connections.

Another great example is Jon, who used fun icebreaker questions at a networking event. Instead of the usual small talk, he asked everyone he met, “If you could be any animal on Noah’s ark, which one would you be and why?” This quirky question led to memorable conversations and made Jon someone people never forgot!

Experts also emphasize the importance of making networking enjoyable. As networking guru Ivan Misner says, “Networking is about farming, not hunting.” It’s about cultivating relationships, and what better way to do that than by having fun along the way?

Implementing Fun Networking in Various Settings

So, how can you implement fun networking techniques with the three-foot rule in different settings? At events and conferences, consider making networking a game. For example, you can create a scavenger hunt to find people who match specific criteria, like someone who has visited more than five countries or has a unique hobby.

In your everyday life, use the three-foot rule to find joy in spontaneous interactions. Whether at a coffee shop, in an elevator, or waiting in line, these are all opportunities to practice your networking skills. Approach someone within three feet of you with a friendly comment or question. You never know where these casual conversations might lead.

Best Places to Use the Three-Foot Rule

The three-foot rule is incredibly versatile and works almost anywhere where people naturally congregate. One of my favorite ways to determine a good location is by asking the question: “Where do my ideal prospects like to go?”  “Where do they shop, relax, have fun, or anything else appropriate.”

Business conferences and trade shows are perfect for the three-foot rule, as they are specifically designed for networking and connecting with industry peers—they contain entrepreneurs or professionals eager to share ideas and establish new connections. 

Whether participating in a panel discussion, working in an exhibition booth, or even in line for coffee, the three-foot rule can help you engage with others, start meaningful conversations, and build valuable relationships. Similarly, professional workshops and seminars offer a conducive environment for implementing this strategy. Attendees at these events are usually keen to learn and network, making it easier to strike up conversations and form connections with like-minded individuals.

Social and community events also present excellent opportunities for applying the three-foot rule. Local business groups, Chamber of Commerce meetings, and even informal gatherings such as business mixers or social clubs provide relaxed atmospheres where networking can flourish. If you still need to listen to my previous podcast about Networking Groups, I will leave a link in the show notes!

People are often more open to spontaneous interactions at business networking events, making it easy to approach them and start conversations. Coworking spaces and shared offices are also great places to apply the three-foot rule. These environments are naturally collaborative, with professionals from various industries working in close proximity, creating abundant networking opportunities. 

Lastly, everyday situations like cafes, gyms, and public transportation offer casual and low-pressure settings to practice the three-foot rule. Engaging with people in these environments can lead to unexpected and beneficial connections, enhancing both your professional and personal networks.

Generating Business Leads with the Three-Foot Rule

To generate business leads using the three-foot rule, prepare engaging conversation starters and icebreakers like the examples above. Then, practice them so you can use the script naturally. Choose the questions you ask carefully to be memorable and create opportunities for deeper, more meaningful conversations. Additionally, always have your business cards ready and easily accessible. After a friendly and engaging conversation, offering your card can be a seamless way to ensure that the interaction has a lasting impact. It also gives the other person a tangible reminder of who you are and what you offer.  Don’t make the common mistake of thinking that because you gave them your business card, you now have a contact.  Ask them for their card in return and when they say they don’t have one (as many don’t nowadays) say that’s okay, let me add you to my contacts on my phone or as a contact on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram. 

Another tip is to focus on active listening and showing genuine interest in the person you’re speaking with. People appreciate when you remember details about them and their business. This attentiveness can set the foundation for a strong professional relationship. Check the show notes for my episode on “Relationshipping.” Follow up on your conversations promptly. Send a personalized email or message on social media within 24-48 hours to keep the momentum going. Mention something specific from your conversation to jog their memory and demonstrate your attention to detail. Additionally, be consistent in your approach. The three-foot rule is most effective when applied regularly, whether you’re at a formal networking event, a casual social gathering, or even during your daily commute. By consistently engaging with those around you, you’ll naturally expand your network and uncover new business leads.

Recap and Weekly Podcast Challenge

We hope you found today’s episode “How to turn networking from scary to fun with the three-foot rule” as enjoyable as it is useful.

To recap, the three-foot rule is a fantastic way to make networking fun and effective. By using creative strategies like icebreakers, gamification, and props, you can turn networking into an enjoyable experience. Remember the real-life success stories of Sally and Jon, who used these techniques to build valuable connections. And don’t forget to implement these strategies in various settings, from professional events to your daily routine.

Now it’s your turn! Try out these fun networking techniques, and let us know how they work for you.

Share your most interesting experiences with me through social media using our dedicated hashtag #richrabbichallenge, or email me with your updates—I’d love to hear from you, and I’ll send you my suggestions for improvements!

Thank you for tuning in to The Rabbi Who Got Rich on Sunday. If you found value in today’s episode, subscribe so you do not miss out on future insights and strategies to help you thrive. Don’t forget to share this episode with a friend or colleague who could benefit from “How to turn networking from scary to fun with the three-foot rule” Our next episode will be the 13th in our mini-series about generating leads where we will learn about “Leveraging your time with a Virtual Assistant.”

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