You’re a business development professional. How can you network like a pro?

Set Clear Goals ???? Define your networking objectives to provide direction and purpose. Whether it's expanding your client base, seeking partnerships, or gaining industry insights, clear goals guide your interactions. Establish both short-term and long-term targets, allowing you to measure success and adapt your networking strategy accordingly.

What is a Goal (and what isn’t)? A goal is: Your vision for the future. Goals should be the result of careful consideration of a personal vision statement and the things you want to achieve. Time-sensitive. Large in nature. Don’t be afraid to set a big goal that seems like a reach. Feel free to think outside the box and dream big. A goal is not: An objective. While goals describe what you want to achieve, objectives are the steps taken to reach the goal. A resolution. Resolutions are often temporary, giving short-term gratification. A mission. Mission statements create a clear and focused direction to follow. It’s the statement of purpose from which a company, business, or individual operates.

?? Setting goals in networking helps provide direction and focus, ensuring that you make meaningful connections and maximize your networking opportunities.

Set Clear Goals! Before establishing a relationship always have answers to these questions: Who, why, how, what? Who: Is he/she/they/them the right person to approach? Why: Why should I establish a connection with them? How: How am I going to connect with them? What: What am I going to gain from it? Answering these questions helps us find the right person.

In the dynamic realm of Business Development, networking isn't just a task; it's an art form. Start by crafting a compelling personal brand—clearly articulate your value proposition and unique strengths. Actively engage in industry events, seminars, and online forums to stay abreast of trends and connect with fellow professionals. Leverage the power of social media; share insights, participate in relevant discussions, and build a digital presence that reflects your expertise. Networking isn't just about what you can get but what you can give—cultivate genuine relationships by offering support, insights, and collaboration. Don't shy away from informational interviews; they're golden opportunities to learn, share, and expand your network.

While people may vary in their opinion, I believe networking only has one objective and definition - "Getting to know people in different industries and their business, rather than looking for an opportunity to sell your product or service." However, some speed networking events are made for B2B collaborations. So, before to going to any networking event you need to know who are the guests that coming, check their profiles on LinkedIn, and see if you share any mutual connections and interests. This habit will help you break the ice and form a conversation. Eventually you will have a set of questions ready to shoot and make sure the other person is enjoying your company. In my experience, this has helped me create healthy relationships.

Do Your Research ???? Before any networking event or meeting, research individuals, companies, or industries you anticipate engaging with. Understanding their background, interests, and recent achievements enables more meaningful conversations. This tailored approach demonstrates your genuine interest and facilitates more impactful connections.

Once you know who you want to connect with and why, it's important to sort and focus on what matters most. Doing good research helps you save time and build strong connections. Going to events related to your industry is a great way to meet people who share your interests. You can talk to others who do similar things and might be helpful for your work. Before you talk to them, learn about what they've done and what they're interested in. Start the conversation by talking about things you both like and want to achieve. This makes your connection stronger and more real.

You may consider using below tools: Sector related Exhibition & Fair exhibitor directories Industry Associations' Member List Google Key Words search YouTube Key Words search LinkedIn search In-person introduction & personal relation references

Make it easy for people to connect with you. Business cards are good, however, utilising digital business cards that share all your relevant information to those you connect with makes the process far more efficient. Many digital business cards, save the precise locations of where you connected with a person. If like me, you connect with handfuls of people each day, this feature is really useful when following up or simply recalling how you connected with a person.

Having worn the hats of both a pharmacist and digital health strategist, I've learned that proactive engagement is key. Much like proactively addressing potential health issues in patient care, initiating conversations and offering assistance in the business realm builds trust and rapport. Collaboration flourishes when there's a genuine desire to contribute and support others on their professional journey.

Be Proactive and Helpful ???? Take the initiative to initiate conversations and offer assistance. Proactively share your expertise or connect others with valuable resources. Being a helpful resource builds a positive reputation within your network. Whether through sharing relevant content or facilitating introductions, actively contribute to the success of those around you.

? Being helpful and offering assistance to others in networking not only strengthens relationships but also creates a positive impression, fostering a spirit of collaboration and reciprocity that can lead to mutually beneficial opportunities.

1) Select a purpose. This becomes your message. 2) Choose your stories. These become your perspectives. 3) Get endorsements. This create authenticity 4) Brand yourself. This defines your positioning. 5) Prepare an elevator speech. This is your visiting card. Try.

Authenticity, a cornerstone of both healthcare and business, forms the bedrock of memorable networking. In my experience, sharing genuine stories from the frontlines of digital health strategy or the pharmacy counter fosters connections that endure. Striking the balance between professionalism and personal authenticity creates a lasting impression that transcends mere professional encounters.

Be Authentic and Memorable ???? Authenticity is key in networking. Be genuine, transparent, and true to yourself. Share personal anecdotes, experiences, and aspirations. This authenticity makes you more relatable and memorable. Craft a compelling elevator pitch that succinctly communicates who you are and what you bring to the table. Leave a lasting impression by showcasing your unique qualities.

Be authentic with respect and manner. By talking to someone we just met, address them with their names or respected title, depending on how they prefer to be called. Have a casual small talk before jumping in to more “serious” business talk and please listen carefully to them.

This is a very valid point. There are many ways to be successful in a BD roles. Some find it most beneficial to be very sociable and blur lines between associate and friend. I find that being authentic, ensuing trust, and relating to the human element is of most help.

Keep Learning and Improving ???? Continuously invest in your professional development. Stay abreast of industry trends, attend workshops, and seek mentorship opportunities. A commitment to learning not only enhances your knowledge but also makes you a valuable asset in your network. Adapt your networking strategies based on feedback, changing market dynamics, and personal growth. Networking like a pro requires a holistic approach encompassing clear goals, thorough research, proactive engagement, authenticity, and a commitment to ongoing improvement. By fostering genuine connections and adding value to your network, you position yourself as a trusted and influential figure in the business development landscape.

Keep your ears open for feedback, Get updated with latest trends and technology, Correct your mistakes, If you don't know ask help, don't hesitate. Don't forget to measure your progress.

Business Partner / Distributor - your base in a foreign market, is the key to success in international collaboration and business development. You should select the right partner with good reputation, solid background and mutual intention with your targets. Success is a long path to walk; keep walking...

?? Being genuine and authentic in your interactions with others is crucial while networking, as it helps to build trust and establish meaningful connections that can lead to long-term relationships.

I really wanted to connect with someone I deeply admired and respected, but I was scared they might say no. Still, I decided to try and sent them a request. When I woke up the next day, they had accepted, and I received reciprocated invitation from that very person. It showed me that taking a chance can led to good things. It taught me to never underestimate what might happen when you try something new. Every little thing you do could turn into something amazing.