Networking

Networking is a tool that can provide a great opportunity to build your business, at the same time it is a skill that does not come naturally to everyone. Have you ever been at a function and felt nervous or uncomfortable talking with others? Have you ever collected contact information, but never reached out to that person after the event was over? Today, we will discuss how to use networking effectively and how to get the most out of it.

Looking for events? Try volunteering. Getting involved with a place of worship or a charitable organization is a great way to meet new people and establish contacts. Another way is to join your local Chamber of Commerce, just make sure you follow your company’s rules about doing so.

Prepare for the event. Make sure that you arrive at the event with a large supply of business cards and any flyers you have on hand. Have a plan in your mind, what is your goal for this event? Bring any business builder tools you may have such as CDs and DVDs, workbooks, etc.

Be Genuine. Just as you know in social situations when someone is mingling for personal gain, others will know if you do it. Be honest, respectful and genuine in your conversations. Listen to others and show them the same respect they show you.

Educate, don’t sell. When talking about yourself and your business, make sure to inform and educate your audience rather than trying to sell your opportunity. This provides you with the chance to build relationships and to gain interest without hard selling.

Connect. Listen to others for common ground ¬¬¬and common interests. These common interests provide a great basis on which to build relationships.

Be happy, be useful. Always be positive and happy when networking. Provide useful information and introduction whenever possible. As you establish yourself as the person to know at events, you can connect better with individuals.

Deal with Rejection. An introduction doesn’t always go the way you would like, some people aren’t interested. Don’t get discouraged, just move on. Remember the Golden Rule “One should treat others, as one would like others to treat oneself.”

Ask to be introduced. If you are new to a situation ask to be introduced. This allows you to establish contacts quickly and get a third person’s perspective on who is important to know. ¬¬¬

Be Brief. People will remember your information better if it is shorter. The longer you talk, the more difficult it is to maintain focus. Prepare a short synopsis about yourself and your business ahead of time.

Follow up. Make sure that once the event is over and you have collected the business cards of the people you have met, reach out to them, either with a phone call or a personally written note.