More and more businesses are seeking virtual alternatives to the B2B trade shows and exhibitions they can no longer attend due to the pandemic lockdown. What options are there on the market? Can we get the trade show sales and connections online? In critical times of uncertainty like we are facing today it is crucial to review what online alternatives to trade shows are there.
Small businesses invest a considerable amount of money to be present at business trade shows and B2B exhibitions as a means to reach more new clients and get business leads. Luckily with digitization we are able to get the same benefits remotely via online business trade shows, B2B platforms, and virtual events.
Take time to build rapport
This is an ancient advice that applies to both in person and remote business negotiations. It’s very straightforward, people don’t feel comfortable to get right down to negotiating. It is important to take the time to build rapport with your negotiating partner. It will loosen up the situation and set up a more relaxed and friendly environment to begin your virtual negotiation. So remember, rule number one: resist the urge to get right to business.
Use video conferencing
Control your expressions
Body language says everything, it reveals and shows more than words. Therefore it is crucial to follow your expressions during a virtual business negotiation. Video meetings limit the visuals of the person and all the focus will be on you, making it impossible for the other negotiator to miss any expression you may make.
A handy tip is to keep an eye on your face on your camera window and you will be able to remain with your poker expression easier.
Suggest a break
Breaks are equally important in virtual business negotiations as they are in in-person negotiations. Suggesting a break or two during your meeting will ease the tension and allow you to reset the tone and atmosphere of the conversation. Don’t underestimate breaks, you can also use them to develop a more personal relationship with your partner negotiator even if it is a remote negotiation.
Conclusion
Finally, a good negotiator masters any environment in which the negotiation takes place. Why waste an opportunity by being ill-prepared. Take note of the above-mentioned advice and start practicing them today. It is crucial not to forget that your expressions go a long way, breaks help ease tensions and buy you time to think and simple chit chat builds rapport, setting a friendly atmosphere for the meeting.
More must-read stories from Enterprise League:
- Why hiring millennials might be the best decision you can ever make.
- Get inspired from this list of creative small business ideas.
- Profitable online education business ideas that you should be aware of.
- Motivating business role models to inspire your entrepreneurial spirit.
Related Articles
Business development tips for junior professionals
In this article we will discuss more about business development strategies and tips for junior professionals, from networking to using digital tools.
11 family business ideas for starting a family-owned company in 2025
Do you have some brilliant family business ideas, but you don’t know how to incorporate them into a business? This article will show you what you need to know.
5 tried and tested ways to respond to professional ghosting
Does professional ghosting frustrate you? We’re showing you 5 effective ways hot to respond to professional ghosting without losing your cool.
Business development tips for junior professionals
In this article we will discuss more about business development strategies and tips for junior professionals, from networking to using digital tools.
11 family business ideas for starting a family-owned company in 2025
Do you have some brilliant family business ideas, but you don’t know how to incorporate them into a business? This article will show you what you need to know.
