11 Tips for Successful Business Networking

I encountered an article earlier that talks about “11 Tips for Successful Business Networking” and here are some of it:

Business networking involves making connections not only with likely customers or clients, but also with other individuals who might refer business to you or mention your name in some positive way to people they know. It also involves connecting with people who provide information or training, and it can be an excellent way of locating reputable vendors to hire for your?own business.

Benefits of Building a Strong Business Network

Clearly, if you aren’t taking the time to meet and interact with others in your field, you’re likely missing out on valuable opportunities to find new partnerships, generate referrals, and even land clients and positions.

11 Tips for Networking Success

Don’t wait until your marketing funnel is empty to start networking. If you want to build a robust business, you should get out there and make connections today. Check out these 11 networking tips sure to expand the number of opportunities that come your way.

1. Attend business networking events

The first step in successful networking is knowing where to go to make connections. While almost any activity or event can serve as a networking opportunity,?small business owners and?professionals with local businesses ?can benefit from attending local business events.

For example, your city’s chamber of commerce might host gatherings for people in your industry. Additionally, it’s worth hitting up meetings for professional associations and societies related to your field.

2. Choose a goal

It’s hard to get what you want out of your networking endeavors if you don’t start with a clear agenda. Before attending meetings or events,?determine what your goals are ?for the experience. For example, you might want to make new connections, donate your time to the community, or simply learn about the latest developments in your business or industry.

3. Get social in your off-hours

Just because you’re off the clock doesn’t mean it’s time to stop networking. If you want to expand your reach, try to chat with attendees at your health club or pilates class. You can even make business connections at your child’s school activities and sports events. After all, parents are typically looking for something to chat about besides what’s happening on the soccer field!?

4. Know your worth

It’s not enough to provide your clients with a great product or service. If you can’t articulate what it is you do, then you can’t hope to convey that information at networking events. Whether your goal is to?generate referrals ?or simply build your virtual Rolodex for the future, take time to generate an elevator pitch that conveys what you do, for whom you do it, and why customers should choose you over your competition.?

5. Identify conversational icebreakers

If you want to overcome initial awkwardness and make a good first impression, consider opening with a compliment. For example, you might tell the person sitting next to you at a seminar that you like their shoes or tie. Similarly, asking a question gives contacts the chance to talk about themselves. Ask how they got into the field or what they think of a recent development affecting your industry.

6. Bring a buddy

Sometimes starting conversations with strangers is easier if you have a familiar face by your side. If you have a friend or coworker who’s also looking to expand their network, consider attending professional events as a twosome. Just be sure you make an effort to connect with other attendees rather than sitting in the corner chatting the whole time.

7. Overcome introversion

If you’re naturally shy, having success in networking can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are some strategies for overcoming introversion and making connections.

First, consider brainstorming icebreakers before a networking event, so you don’t have to come up with ideas on the spot. Second, feel free to take a breather if you get overwhelmed. Go to the restroom, take a walk, or grab a coffee. You can return to the room refreshed and ready to meet new people.

Want to know more? Head on over to the full article here for more ideas and perspective. Afterwards, why not drop me an email to share your thoughts at [email protected]; or call me on 0467 749 378.

Thanks,

Robert