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Networking Rocks

Written by: Warren Coughlin

Article Overview: A short overview of the benefits and techniques of effective networking.

Networking Rocks

Networking Rocks!! If done well, it can be an incredibly powerful and economical arrow in your marketing quiver. If done poorly, it can amount to an unrewarding evening of frighteningly unidentifiable finger food. From the perspective of a business coach, here are a few gratuitous hints and tips for networking. Please note that they are based on the axiom that, all other things equal, people like to deal with people they like. So,:
• Know your event. Choose events where there will be people you can do business with (please note that this does not mean only those to whom you can sell.), or those who share an interest or passion you have. The latter group can be enthusiastic advocates for you.
• Know your objectives. If you go with the goal of selling at the event, you may as well stay home. At a minimum, you should consider the following objectives: to meet people with whom I can follow up for the purpose of introducing my products/services; to meet people who can refer me to prospects; to meet people to whom I can refer to others; to meet people with whom I can create a strategic relationship; to meet nice people whose company I enjoy.
• Know your focus - When attending an event, don't try to meet as many people as possible. Trust isn't built from a stack of business cards.
• Have an adequate supply of business cards and make sure you get a business card from every person you meet - This will allow you to follow up and to help build your database.
• Listen and ask questions - You have two ears and one mouth so remember to use them proportionately! It’s like dating: no one is interested in those who only talk about themselves.
• Be positive and enthusiastic. Those who complain about the event, about the frighteningly unidentifiable finger food, about the weather… well, they tend not to be the most highly sought-after company.
• Give referrals whenever possible - A good networker gains by giving. So, because most successful businesses grow from referrals, be the person that does the referring.
• Write notes on the backs of business cards you collect - This will help jog your memory when you make contact with them and will help in building rapport.
• Follow Up - If you've discussed following up, contact that person within 3 days.
• Keep promises - If you've made a promise, keep it! No one likes to do business with an unreliable person.
• Think differently - Focus on just meeting people and not finding new customers because that's what everyone else is probably doing.
• Have Fun!! While networking is work, it can also be a very enjoyable way to learn, to share and to profitably grow your business.

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Related Forum Posts
Re: Make Friends...Literally BUILD them! - I agree! Networking is definitely the key word here. What does everyone feel about the different Networking platforms out there? Twitter Facebook LinkedIn what are some others?
Re: How can a social networking site make serious money? - Hi There, It is quite interesting, that some Social Networking do produce an income. I think testimonials are always a benefit to share. See one below: This Social Network has changed my life! Every night is a Friday night and everyday is a Saturday!! Because of it, I have been able to leave the workforce 10 years early.It has given me back my life. Many of us would like to retire early. I am sure there are many more. The point is of focusing with great determination. The ongoing challenge is to stay focussed and not be sidetracked into a newer scheme or so. Also I have read, during this financial turmoil, more people turn to Social Networking for various reasons.
Re: Make Friends...Literally BUILD them! - [quote="burnsrunner":1zobscwk]I agree! Networking is definitely the key word here. What does everyone feel about the different Networking platforms out there? Twitter Facebook LinkedIn what are some others?[/quote:1zobscwk] I am on Twitter and Linkedin, have not joined Facebook yet as my time is fairly limited and one needs a lot of time to devote to all these various networking platforms. Unless you do this full time (the networking I mean). MichelleJ
Trump Institute - Toronto - I agree, the Networking available at these courses and the people I can connect them with is what I love to do. Also, this one event is a stone's throw away from my place - I can't resist. Oh! I also get to walk away with some new reading material.
Re: Simple Idea - Great Advice. - What your success stories on Social Networking for more contacts and connections? Do you have any good business books to suggest? I love the idea of connecting and sharing with other entrepreneurs. Thank you for your input!


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