Networking is a powerful tool to not only grow your business, but to also make beneficial connections.  

These 10 tips will ensure you’ve got the basics down pat and can make the most of your next event.

Be genuine

Networking isn’t about making a quick sale or converting people, it’s about building the foundation for a strong and powerful relationship. Focusing mainly on the sale is a great way to alienate!

Set goals

There are a host of networking events available, each serving slightly different purposes. Some are based not just on making business connections, but learning, teaching and volunteering. If you set goals, you can ensure the events you attend will help you meet them.

Shop around

Don’t just settle for the first group you attend. Many will allow you to attend 1 or 2 times before you make your decision. Be sure to ask current members about their experiences.

Volunteer

It’s a great way to keep visible and to give back to the group.

Be interested

When conversing with other attendees, make sure you show interest in them! Ask open ended questions and show interest in what they say.

Become a resource

If people are regularly coming to you for names, recommendations or answers, this keeps you visible and front of mind. Chances are, when they need the service you provide, they will think of you first!

Have a clear introduction

Make sure you’ve practiced your opening line many times over. You need to outline exactly what you do, who your target market is and why you are the best person to service them.

Know what you are looking for

Networking is not only about pushing your services, but finding answers to your own questions. Be sure you know in advance what you want to ask so you aren’t wasting peoples time.

Follow through

Follow through quickly and professionally with all referrals you are given, as your actions are a reflection on the person who provided the referral.

Stay in contact

Send an email or make a quick call to those you connected with. This will show you are interested in staying in contact and it will remind them about what you do.

Author Bio: Jake Thomas – Working with hundreds of businesses through his business life has given Jake the necessary skills to help businesses reduce the time, hassle and hefty price tag involved with design and print. For more information, visit www.emroy.com.au.

Related posts:

1. How to find your target market

   A mistake many small business owners make is falling into...

2. How to Hold a successful Online Meeting

   The use of audio and web conferencing as an alternative...

3. Three Pillars of a Successful Marketing Strategy

   Regardless if you’re in communications, public relations, or marketing you’re...

4. 6 Tips for a Successful Meeting

   We’ve all experienced it before – a meeting that is...

5. Managing Twitter Lists – How Powerful Are They?

   Twitter. Unless you live on a rock, you know what...