What do you do if your networking efforts aren't yielding results in the small business world?

When you find your networking efforts are not netting hoped for results instead of labeling others as not a fit for you simpy ask them, one at a time, what they need. Get to know the needs of each individual. Ask questions and listen. Then ask more questions. Your job is to listen. You may discover you are not in a group that is a fit for what you do. OR you make see a different approach with each individual that is a fit for both you and the other person. Smile and listen - a genuine smile NOT a plasterone while you secretly thin iof your next words. BE YOU!

While SMART goals are helpful, consider using the CLEAR framework: Collaborative, Limited, Emotional, Appreciable, and Refinable. This approach focuses on goals that involve others, have a defined scope, connect with people's values, show clear progress, and can be adjusted as needed. This might be a better fit for networking, which is all about building relationships and adapting to new information and opportunities.

Relationships take work. Assess are you giving as much, if not more, than you are receiving? Take stock of the quality of your relationships and determine are they many layers deep or surface level! Quality relationships are key to Building trust and receiving referrals! ??Sailynn... Your FUN Business Coach Creator of The Legacy Business System

Here are a couple of other tips to strengthen the concept of building quality relationships: 1. Choose networking organizations that you believe you'll enjoy (to encourage routine involvement) that also include attendees that may be within your target audience, 2. Get involved in committees/subcommittees that align with your values - you'll forge deeper connections with others in the organizations.

I know that a person who took the first meeting had the intention to solve a problem. Asking questions that push their agenda forward while showing my expertise makes a big difference. Then follow through with insights.

Bob Burg and his training have taught me some of the best books and systems about quality networking and follow-up strategy. Start with his "Endless Referrals" book. It's a solid system that works!

In my work supporting women business owners, one very successful networking strategies I've seen is this: leverage online platforms in advance of business conference. Even when an event is entirely in-person, the conference apps usually have an attendee profiles section. I encourage you to complete your profile with all the elements it offers, i.e.: link back to your website, upload documents, add a banner, etc. These apps also have chat and/or messaging. So to recap: 1. Fill out your profile 2. Review other attendee profiles 3. Message attendees in advance 4. Connect during the event This is all part of the important event preparations and will help small business owners yield better results in their networking efforts.

Instead of just talking about yourself online, listen to what others are saying. When you join conversations and offer helpful advice, people will notice you and want to connect. Think of it as making friends, not just making announcements.

When possible always introduce your network to others who you genuinely think could benefit them (even if you can't). It makes you memorable and proves that you genuinely are out to help even if it's not your own service (this time.)

Focusing on offering value is key, but remember that value is different for everyone. Take the time to learn about the people you're connecting with and figure out what's important to them. Then, look for ways you can offer something that truly helps them, whether it's a helpful connection, a piece of advice, or even just a listening ear.

There is a balance between persistence and harassing. We've all witnessed both I'm sure. Staying persistent is more than just following up on LinkedIn or via email, it's making a point of following up at conferences and trade shows, engaging with LinkedIn posts, and asking their opinion and expertise when warranted. It all helps.

Think of networking like exercise: you need to keep at it to see results. Just like you can't run a marathon after one jog, don't expect a huge network after one event. Keep showing up, connecting with people, and building those relationships over time. And remember to be smart about who you choose to connect with – don't waste your energy on folks who clearly aren't interested. At the same time, don't jump to the conclusion that someone doesn't want to build a relationship because they didn't answer your email or text. People are busy. Focus on building genuine connections, and you'll see your network grow stronger over time.