As you already know, I am a firm believer in using fashion as an effective business tool.
Your next networking event is a great opportunity for you to put my philosophy into practice.
Why?
Because I know you will instantly get results! Plus, whether you’re aware of it or not, you’ve probably already been putting it into practice.
Has anyone every approached you at a professional networking event and complimented something you’re wearing? Have you ever jumpstarted a conversation this way yourself?
I bet so.
It’s human nature to visualize before we verbalize. Compliments are an easy ice-breaker. This means you want to use them to your best advantage and turn compliments into conversations.
Jewelry is the most successful fashion conversation starter at networking events. Both women and men feel comfortable complimenting or commenting on a piece of jewelry. It’s considered in the safe zone.
Plus, when another professional feels compelled to let you know they like something you are wearing…it’s as if you instantly have something in common…and if you have similar aesthetics, they’re likely to think, “I wonder what more we might have in common?”
Let me add, even when a fellow networker doesn’t actually say anything directly about the jewelry you’re wearing, if it’s something they like, they will still be intrigued by the piece and by you.
The networking business relationship often starts with the visual and ends with the substantive.
Necklaces and earrings are the most impactful, because they’re at eye level with other networkers. To bring your favorite networking bracelet or ring to eye level, be sure to wear it on the hand that holds your drink beverage or food plate.
I recommend wearing one eye-catching piece of jewelry to networking events. It doesn’t have to be dramatic or over-the-top to be effective; it’s most important for it to be visually fascinating and personally flattering.
Here are some jewelry ideas to wear to your next networking event:
Gold Crescent Cascade Necklace, Baublebar, $32 | Kate Spade Scallop Hoop Earrings, Piperlime, $68 | Aqua Enameled Bangle, JCrew, $98 | Trink Turk Ring, Piperlime, $85 | Pave Links Bracelet, Baublebar, $78 | Ruby Shan Necklace, Baublebar, $28 | Emerald Drop Earrings, Baublebar, $24 | CC Skye Spike Bracelet, Shopbop, $125 | Hive & Honey Swirl Ring, Piperlime, $18.
Do you ever buy jewelry specifically for work and networking events? If so, do you have any more recommendations for readers? If not, have these fashion biz tips helped you view jewelry in a new way?
Image credit: traditionalelements.tumblr.com. Graphics by Kristina Moore for Corporate Fashionista.
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