Networking
events can be a phenomenal way to grow your
business. Here are some of the keys to networking
success:
Identify
Your Target Market - Who do you want
to meet? You may want to target potential
clients and the people who typically influence
their buying decisions, potential strategic
partners, and other possible referral sources.
Choose
Your Networking Venues - Most areas
offer a wide variety of business networking
opportunities, from industry groups to chambers
of commerce, networking organizations, charitable
groups, and more. Choose wisely, or your
calendar will be filled with non-productive
meetings.
Be Prepared
- Bring an ample supply of business cards,
as well as some copies of your company's
flier or brochure. Be aware that many organizations
have each attendee stand up and give a 20-
to 30-second "advertisement" for
their company; practice yours in advance
so your mind won't go blank when it's your
turn to speak.
Focus
On Your Benefits - Keep in mind that
when you are presenting your business to
others you need to focus on the benefits
of what you offer. Why should someone do
business with you? How will your product
or service help them?
Follow
Up Promptly - Within 24 hours you should
follow up on all leads, introductions, promises
to send information, and so forth. Don't
forget to send thank you notes to the people
who refer business to you.
Build
Relationships - Networking is all about
relationships. Once you've found the right
networking groups you should attend regularly,
learn people's names, have one-on-one meetings
outside of the group, and maintain contact
with the people you've met.
Bring
Value - Be a giver. Help yourself by
helping others. Offer free advice or services,
look for opportunities to make introductions,
refer business to others, and do whatever
you can to help your networking partners
to succeed.
