Have you been networking often, but feel that you are not getting results you want? Or have you hesitated to join a networking group because you are not sure it’s right for you? Read on to discover the types of networks that are out there. Get practical techniques and tips to grow your network, receive viable leads or new business, and advance yourself professionally.
Networking to find new business for your company might be the first type of networking that comes to your mind when thinking about networking groups. If you have identified your target clients, do you know where they spend their time? A good place to begin is with any association that offers specific education or certifications to professionals within an industry. Start relationship building by having meaningful conversations and exchanges about personal interests, industry trends, or learnings from a session/course offered before jumping into discussions about a potential sale.
Networking with peers is an authentic way to learn from others, allowing for a perspective shift and receiving of advice based on someone else’s comparable experiences. Don’t forget to find opportunities to help others by providing insights and solutions of your own that are similar to the challenges they face. Additionally, peers are also great ambassadors – individuals that while they might not be your client, could be an advocate for you, providing referrals or helping identify opportunities to promote your business.
The more often you attend your networking group(s), the more people you will connect with and the higher your probability of success against identified goals.
Here are three more tips for effective networking:
1) Be inquisitive. Ask questions of others first, listen and offer your story when asked or after the person has shared theirs.
2) Be a connector. Introduce your connections. Once you have learned about another person’s business or role at an organization, ask them if you can introduce them to someone that might be their target. When you do this, ask that individual to reciprocate.
3) Be an ambassador. Develop a network that you feel you could refer outside your industry expertise. As an example, if you have an accountant that you work with and another business owner or colleague says they are having a challenge with their books, refer your accountant if that person is open.
Understanding the basics when you’re networking will help you effectively navigate, identify, and receive added knowledge, new connections, and the ability to grow your business along with helping others. #networking #networkingevent #networkinggroups #connections #connecting #ambassador
