Rodeo Houston Offers the Best in Livestock, Entertainment and Networking
As a native Houstonian, I’m no stranger to the
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo — in fact, I’ve been coming to the show since the age of two! As a kid it’s all about the carnival and the clowns, but now that I’ve ventured into the working world, I’ve noticed that the rodeo offers much more than thrills and chills — it’s an excellent business development and networking venue.
This year, I opted to join the
Rodeo Houston Merchandise Committee, a group of volunteers who sell the “bowlegged H” branded items, benefitting the
children’s scholarship programs that the Rodeo supports. In our meetings, I’ve had the opportunity to meet and talk business with several of Houston’s biggest entrepreneurs and executives, engaging them in discussion spanning from politics to rodeo to, of course, business.
In doing this, I realized the importance of representing your company and your brand wherever you go. Whether you know it or not, every time you step out in public is a networking opportunity — a chance to bring in new business and make connections that could lead to sales or other business goals. While formal networking events are great — such as luncheons, seminars or happy hours — it’s often these non-traditional gatherings that lead to the most promising prospects, as they allow you to connect in a comfortable, relaxed environment.
So think of yourself as a walking billboard for your company, and be sure to represent the following qualities wherever you go — whether it’s the Little League ballpark or the next
AMA Houston luncheon:
• Core values. If your company brands itself as innovative, creative and cutting-edge, let that portion of your personality shine at industry and social events. Employees who embody the organization’s core values exhibit a passion that is tangible — and it’s something that inspires prospects to learn more.
• Industry relevance. Genuine conversation is key to relationship building, and if you can’t speak intelligently about your potential client’s industry and its unique challenges, why would they want to do business with you?
• Genuine interest. No one likes to be sold — especially not at social or “fun” events. Spark conversations with people because you genuinely care about them and their business, not because you’re looking to sell them something. Relationships are the key to business success, and being seen as pushy or surface-level is no way to build your network.
At this year’s Rodeo, boots and hats are encouraged, but business cards are a must! See you at the show!