Before we talk about specific networking tips I want to address a critical aspect of networking that is often overlooked. Sometimes we are so eager to network that we don't stop to consider whether or not we are investing our energy in the right places.
Listen, you can go to all of the networking meetings under the sun and collect hundreds of business cards while you're at it but if you're not hanging out with people you can do business with, you might make some new friends, you won't necessarily grow your business.
If you want to grow your business by networking it is imperative that you network with: people who are your ideal clients, people who know your ideal clients, and/or people who do business with your ideal clients. It's that simple. So before you sign up for your next networking event, ask yourself if it is a good fit for your business.
When you network with people who need your products/services (or know others who do) there will be a natural interest in knowing more about your business. Stop, not so quick ? the story of you and your business comes later. First, let's walk through what happens at a networking event and I will give you a tip for each step.
Step 1: Meeting People
Enter the room with confidence, stand up straight and smile. Look for a friendly face and introduce yourself. If you don't see an opportunity to meet someone right away don't panic. A sure fire way to strike up a conversation is to get in a line (to sign in, for food, for drinks, for the restrooms). You can also approach the person hosting the event and ask for an introduction. In addition, if the list of attendees is available prior to the meeting you can identify someone you would like to meet and approach someone to ask if the person you are looking for is at the meeting.
Step 2: Getting to Know People - The Ed Principle
Instead of trying to be interestING (focusing on the 'ing') be interestED (focus on the 'ed') in the person you are talking with. You don't have to worry about what you will say (except for your brief pitch which comes later). In fact, you can make it a goal to talk as little as possible, I promise you will be remembered as a marvelous conversationalist. Memorize this phrase: 'Tell me more about...' and use it! Just relax, be yourself and listen.
Step 3: Giving First
Yes I know, the reason you are networking in the first place is because you want to get something. You want to meet more of your ideal clients and meet people who can refer to your ideal clients. But don't forget, networking is a two way street. It is about building relationships. I know you have something interesting to share, so why not give first? Perhaps you can recommend a great book or website, share an article, or maybe you can make a valuable introduction.
Step 4: Your Perfect Pitch
Eventually the person you are talking with may ask you what you do, so be ready! Don't ramble on about how long you have been in business or how your business process works. Do prepare a fabulous, short, and memorable pitch (10-30 seconds long) that clearly communicates what you do and for whom you do it.
Step 5: Ending a Conversation
Remember, all conversations must end at some point so don't be afraid to politely excuse yourself and thank the person for her time. Reasons to wrap up can include going to get another drink, something to eat, going to the restroom, or needing to talk with someone before they leave. Whatever the reason, be honest and be genuine.
Step 6: Follow Up and Follow Through
This one is so simple and important yet somehow it frequently gets ignored. If you promise to do something (call, send an article, make an introduction) do it!
Think about making use of these networking tips the next time you plan to do some networking. The truth is people do business with people they know, like, and trust. This occurs over time and is all about building relationships, not about collecting business cards. Be yourself, be real and have fun!
(c) 2005 Stephanie Ward
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR NEWSLETTER OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this information with it: Life & Business Coach Stephanie Ward helps business owners set their profits on fire! Get your free monthly profit tips plus bonus report at: http://www.fireflycoaching.com
Do not destroy all your positive displacement and high energy... Read More
"Fear not to entertain strangers for by so doing some... Read More
As a single company, it is impossible to provide your... Read More
Many workers think that their hard work will speak for... Read More
Q: I think I understand the value of networking as... Read More
With at least 60% of job-seekers finding employment through networking,... Read More
In recent weeks, I've had the opportunity to pass along... Read More
Ever use someone else to get your message out?For example,... Read More
As a Young Professional (YP) in the up-and-coming city of... Read More
If you have been in business for any amount of... Read More
Do you ever wonder why single people give flowers, wine,... Read More
Why would you want to write information on paper when... Read More
Put join a networking group on your to do list... Read More
What do you tell people when asked what you do?... Read More
These Actions of Awesome Hospitality? will help you manifest the... Read More
Who needs a network of people to talk to about... Read More
How many leads do you pass on?As a reminder, you... Read More
Networking is often identified as a key business building activity... Read More
In the workplace - and when dealing with workplace matters... Read More
One of the most cost effective ways of generating leads... Read More
Networking is one of the most important skills a person... Read More
First of all I would like to start this article... Read More
It is important for you to join at least one... Read More
Most of us remember the commercial that said, "I told... Read More
Networking ? it's the latest business trend. Or is it?Actually,... Read More
Definition: talk idly or casually in a friendly way Value:... Read More
Successful networking requires the understanding from the get-go that it... Read More
What happens when you meet a potential client at an... Read More
Are you tired of prospecting for new business?Are you sick... Read More
Before we talk about specific networking tips I want to... Read More
It's a classic mistake by networkers: their approach is focused... Read More
Let's face it, when most people think of IT professionals,... Read More
If you're new to the internet marketing club, you may... Read More
My husband and I tried an experiment one night. We... Read More
Ah, the personal touch that continues to make a big... Read More
First of all I would like to start this article... Read More
These Actions of Awesome Hospitality? will help you manifest the... Read More
How does one determine which are the best events to... Read More
Networking: Is it who you know or what you know... Read More
Quote of the week"The answer is always no...unless you ask."... Read More
People like others whom they are like. So if you... Read More
How can you find out the group loyalty requirements before... Read More
Research shows that talking to strangers -- not people in... Read More
Did you just meet the most important person in your... Read More
"The Networking Factor, Everyone is important!" This slogan reminds me... Read More
Networking requires an investment of time, money and effort. Here... Read More
Many workers think that their hard work will speak for... Read More
If you're in a business relationship with anyone ? a... Read More
You only have three seconds?Connect in under a minute?People decide... Read More
Whether you're an introvert or an extrovert, feel like you... Read More
When you look at your friends, it's like looking into... Read More
"Hey Scott, would you like to go to a Bad... Read More
How do you measure a group's worth to your organization?It... Read More
I grew up in a household where saying thank you... Read More
As a small business owner you may find yourself in... Read More
There are people who are natural born networkers - those... Read More
The heart of any business is the connection it has... Read More
If you're fond of a good debate, you know how... Read More
The Personal Touch 1There is a simple art to networking... Read More
In life, you have to successfully work with people to... Read More
Why business relationships are formed with certain people?If you go... Read More
Who needs a network of people to talk to about... Read More
Let's test your knowledge on networking:1)The best definition of networking... Read More
What is the definition of a leads exchange and how... Read More
Although, this is about giving the gift of your name... Read More
Definition: talk idly or casually in a friendly way Value:... Read More
Networking |