Networking Success. Build Relationships that Count: Michael Forman

Networking for Introverts: Break the Ice Confidently Transform your Networking Mindset from Sales to Service

Episode 259 (Michael is based near Atlanta)

In this conversation we explore:

1. Why networking should focus on giving rather than receiving.

2. How to build trust through active listening.

3. The FORM method to start conversations naturally.

4. How to practice introductions and grow more confident.

5. Why handwritten thank you notes boost your response rates.

6. How to prepare yourself mentally for networking events.

7. How to use your CRM to build real relationships.

8. How to politely redirect a conversation when someone won’t stop talking.

9. How Michael’s military experience shaped his leadership and networking approach.

10. How to empower employees and turn them into networking ambassadors.

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About our guest Michael A. Forman:

Author of the book, Networking Unleashed: Mastering the art of Networking and host of the podcast by the same name.

He's a veteran of the US Air Force and served in Desert Storm.

Learn more about his book and take his digital course at 

https://www.michaelaforman.com/

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📌 Key Learning Points

1. Networking is about giving, not just receiving. Michael emphasizes a servant’s heart approach—helping others first without immediate expectations.

2. Active listening builds trust. Listening means not planning your reply but really hearing the other person.

3. Memorable introductions create connection. Practice making introductions personal and genuine—mention something specific about each person.

4. Use the FORM method for conversations. FORM = Family, Occupation, Recreation, Message—it’s a reliable framework to get others talking comfortably.

5. Handwritten thank you notes have huge impact. They significantly increase response rates compared to just an email follow-up.

6. Networking is a skill that requires practice. Confidence and memory improve over time by consistently introducing others and engaging actively.

7. Keep track of contacts and conversations. Use a CRM and note key details from conversations to build real relationships.

8. How you prepare matters. Practice conversation openers in front of a mirror, use compliments to start conversations, and smile—even if it’s a “fake” smile at first!

9. Know when to politely interrupt. If someone won’t stop talking, find a respectful way to redirect or pause the conversation.

10. Military experience shaped Michael’s leadership and networking style. Building trust and respect in the military laid the foundation for his networking skills.

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Your Intended Message is the podcast about how you can boost your career and business success by honing your communication skills. We’ll examine the aspects of how we communicate one-to-one, one to few and one to many – plus that important conversation, one to self.

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

 

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

 

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills

https://www.instagram.com/georgetorok/