CONNECTION MATTERS : Edition 2
Mellissa P French
Connecting Businesses & Professionals With Their Ideal Clients & Business Associates. International Connector & Business Relationship Expert. Certified DISC Profile Analyst. National Director @ Apollo Business UK
In this edition:
TIPS ON TURNING SHYNESS TO YOUR FAVOUR
20 years ago, I never dreamed of participating in any business networking due to my introverted nature, let alone being in front of a room and training entrepreneurs!
The following are steps that have helped me evolve from a caterpillar to a butterfly, and I hope they can help some of you too.
1. It begins with expanding my comfort zone a little at a time.
I started by scanning the room for an "approachable face" - the one person who has a gentle smile, soft eyes, and is not loud. Now that I know, they are likely a green.
2. Most introverts are excellent listeners and observers; these are valuable skills in networking. So, embrace them.
Use your active listening skills to fully engage in a conversation. People appreciate when someone is genuinely interested in what they have to say.
3. If you are looking to connect with a specific person or profession within a group of people, focus on getting to know that person and finding common ground. This helps take the pressure off, and I hope it helps you too.
4. Above all, revisit "Your WHY". Learn to expand and be bigger than your obstacles.
IS NETWORKING WORKING FOR YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS?
A common messages I have been hearing among networkers is they have been busy networking but not getting results.
There are several types of networking activities, and I strongly believe that they work for one or another, depending on what you are looking for.
SOCIAL NETWORKING - Feeding the soul.
Serving the community with charity events or some sort. Occasionally, you can get some business out of it, and usually, you gain long-standing friendships from these activities.
OCCASIONAL NETWORKING - Meeting quarterly.
This type of event works well for gathering new contacts with the aim of building an ongoing relationship outside of the meeting.
MONTHLY NETWORKING - If it is a membership organisation, it works well if members strive to build a long-lasting relationship or synergy with particular individuals.
PROFESSIONAL GATHERING / SEMINAR / NETWORKING - This type of networking provides cross-knowledge mentorship, partnership, and even potential customers. However, it may be competitive as it lacks diversity in the existing networks. A common phrase will be, who should I pass the referral to since there are a few individuals providing similar services.
STRONG CONTACT NETWORKING - Meeting on a weekly basis.
Meeting on a weekly basis fosters better understanding, trust and builds stronger relationships. This type of networking requires commitment; once mastered, it can be a well-oiled machine in filing the sales pipeline.
Apollo Business UK is a strong contact networking platform for business-minded individuals. We focus on more than just business, and there is an element of self development.
If you would like to experience it as a visitor, drop us an enquiry at [email protected] and we will invite you to the group closest to you.
BUSINESS NETWORKING TIPS
Always be prepared before the event. Knowing what you intend to achieve is important to avoid time wasting unless it is purely a social event. Ideally if you could find out who is attending, and if there is any particular individual or profession you intend to connect and with a possible collaboration.
CLUES FOR SMOOTH COMMUNICATION AT YOUR CLIENTS AND PROSPECTS WORKSPACE
Most people think communication breaksdown often due to:
The ability to communicate effectively can significantly improve relationship with family, friends, colleagues, clients, prospects and acquaintances.
In my view, grasping the personality colour of an individual can transcend both language barriers and cultural discrepancies.
I have compiled a 12-page article with insights to observe in the workplace during your next client or prospect visit to facilitate better communication.
Here is the link to download Clues for Smooth Communication with your clients and prospects at their workplace for free.
WHAT'S HAPPENING AT Apollo Business UK
We are thrilled to have Ross Girdler join our team in the Bath area.
In addition to his role as an Apollo Bath Consultant, Ross is dedicated to collaborating with small businesses and individuals, empowering them to achieve their full potential. He ensures they have the necessary support and protection to navigate the challenges of small business ownership through his work with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).
Aside from his position as a Membership Advisor at the FSB, Ross is also leading an exciting R&D start-up that holds great promise for the future.
When he's not working, you can find Ross enjoying the water - whether it's at the beach, on a surfboard, kitesurfing, or sailing. His happiest moments are spent by the sea.
Ross is also a proud father to two wonderful children, a 10-year-old son and a 8-year-old daughter.
With a commitment to fostering collaboration and growth, Apollo Business UK is currently bringing together professionals from various industries and backgrounds to explore synergies and spark innovation.
Apollo Business focuses on strong contact networking, don't miss out on this chance to expand your network and elevate your professional trajectory.
Apollo Avon
Meets: Wednesday
Time: 7:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Hosted at Bristol and Clifton Golf Club, Beggar Bush Lane, Failand, BS8 3TH
Participation Fee: ￡10
Apollo Bath 01
Meets: Thursday, 24th October 2024
Time: 10 AM - 12 PM
Hosted at The Bath Townhouse, Coppa Club, 18 - 19, Old Bond Street, Bath BA1 1BP
Participation Fee: Your cup of coffee / tea
Check with us at [email protected] for availability dates.