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Tips for Networking Success!

By admin • July 7, 2009

Over the last year, I noticed a dramatic increase in the number of networking groups and events, as well as an increase in the number of people using networking as a way to grow their businesses.  During networking events, I observed people who were not prepared, not using their time effectively, and even coming and going without having a single conversation with anyone else.  I have also listened to clients and business professionals complain about how, despite spending a great deal of time and energy “networking,” they still were not seeing the results they expected.

The #1 Thing you need to know and embrace is NETWORKING IS NOT SELLING!

Using networking events solely for the purpose of trying to get people to buy from you is like buying a car and using it as a stereo.  Can it be done?  Absolutely.  However, by focusing on selling you are missing out on the true benefit of networking - continuing to generate referrals long after the event is over. 

So what is NETWORKING?

Networking is all about building relationships where you want to help people grow their businesses, and they want to help you grow yours.  Here are some ways you can become a more effective networker:

1.  Choose Groups and Venues that Work Best for You and Your Business.
 
There are typically a large number of networking groups available to attend.  Because you have limited time, money and energy, it is important to select those events that most closely align with you and your business goals. 
 
2.  Make it Easy for People to Remember You 
 
Many people have trouble remembering names and occupations when meeting people, especially in large groups.  (For tips on remember names, visit my blog post.)  In order to refer you business, the person must first remember who you are and what you do.  I recommend making this as easy as possible.  One easy way to do this is to always wear a name tag with you name, title and company.

3.  Have a Goal before You Walk in the Door

Know why you are at the event and what you want to accomplish.  Are you there to meet new people?  To connect with current clients?  To socialize?  Determining your goals in advance will help you to remain focused during the event.  
 
4.  Focus on the Other Person First
 
Because networking is about building relationships, you need to learn about the other person and his business.  Unfortunately, this is easy to forget when you are excited about sharing who you are and what you do.  To avoid this, get in the habit of focusing on the other person first.  Listen closely to what is being said; don’t just wait for your turn to speak.
 
5.  Look for Opportunities to Partner-Up
 
Look for opportunities to actively work together in order to grow each other’s businesses.  Perhaps you share a common client base or have complementary products or services.  Partnering with another business owner can be both beneficial and energizing.

6.  Consistently Follow-up

Networking doesn’t end when the event is over.  It is important to have a strategy to consistently follow-up on referrals and leads, and to maintain mutually beneficially networking relationships.  Often the true benefit of networking is realized during interactions between events.

7.  Have Fun! 

People are generally attracted to people who are positive and appear to be having an enjoyable time.  Think about how you want to be remembered after the event is over and when business opportunities arise.  If you really don’t enjoy networking, it may be time to investigate other ways to grow your business. 

I hope this helps you in your quest to become a more effective networker.  If you are interested in using networking as a way to DRAMATICALLY grow you business and want to find out even more, visit http://www.dynamicbusinessnetworking.com/.

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4 Responses to “Tips for Networking Success!”

  1. Christine Sierra
    July 8, 2009 at 9:27 am |

    Great tips – and I’ve learned recently to add my social networking info to my name tag, such as my Twitter name. Really helps at events that are coordinated online – or “tweetups” – as they are so lovingly referred to!

    Cheers! Christine

  2. admin
    July 8, 2009 at 9:39 am |

    Christine – That’s a GREAT idea! I also recommend adding them to your email signature. All good ways to help people connect with you.

  3. Mario Bellavance
    July 8, 2009 at 8:34 pm |

    Great tips Scott! Keep up the good work!

    Mario

  4. admin
    July 9, 2009 at 2:58 pm |

    Thank you Mario. I’m glad you are enjoying the Biz Tips!

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