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4 Foolproof Tips to Improve Your Business Networking

Written by: Mathew Georghiou

Article Overview: Business is very much about relationships - the more you have, and the deeper they are, the more likely you are to succeed. Here are four quick tips on using networking to your advantage.

4 Foolproof Tips to Improve Your Business Networking

Business is very much about relationships - the more you have, and the deeper they are, the more likely you are to succeed. Here are four quick tips on using networking to your advantage.

• First, remember that time is at a premium, so find events where successful, connected people gather, and where you have the opportunity to interact, not just sit passively in an audience.

• Second, ask questions and be a good listener. By encouraging others to talk about themselves, you will learn more about their interests and backgrounds and they will feel better about you.

• Third, look to help people, not sell them. Try to relate to the person you are talking to, whether it is with career, hobbies, family, etc. and consider ways you can build the relationship, not just by selling your services, but by offering helpful information, an introduction, etc. Be genuine not manipulative. Do this well and the sales will come.

• Fourth, follow up with any contacts you make. This could be an email or a simple note to say you were pleased to meet. Even better would be something related to your earlier discussion.

When it comes to establishing mutually rewarding relationships, the broader your network of acquaintances and associates, the more you have to offer to the people you meet. And, remember, it's not who you know, it's who you help.

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Article Tags: acquaintances, audience, email, good listener, hobbies, networking, relationship, rewarding relationships



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