Before you begin your networking campaign, be sure to set out some goals. Without goals in place, you won't be able to properly assess the success of your networking program. Once those goals are in place, you can begin to meet and work with other business people.
Visit with as many groups in your community as you possibly can prior to joining. Some groups are more educationally oriented, some are mainly in search of volunteers, and others are interested in facilitating business contacts. Learn as much as you can about the group, its support for business networking, the quality of its leadership, and its general tone. That way, you can select the groups that are right for you, and your business.
Once you choose the groups you wish to join, become involved in their activities. Sign up as a volunteer on a few of their committees. If at all possible, select one that has some relation to your field of business.
Be seen as a helpful person and a strong business resource. If people view you as an expert, willing to share advice freely in your area of business, they will gravitate towards you for ideas and assistance. It also serves to keep your name and business visible to them.
When you meet new contacts, be clear to them about what you and your business actually can do for them. Be able to summarize what makes you and your company unique in twenty-five words or less. In order to receive referrals, you must be able to let others understand how and why you can help them reach their business goals. If someone asks how they can help you in return, your short unique short business summary will tell them.
When you get business referrals, follow up on them as quickly as possible. Your new contact will feel good about having assisted you. It is also shows respect to the referrer. Because they took the time to help you, it is common courtesy to honour their time and effort. Be absolutely certain to show why they had that confidence in you and your business. Thank them personally after making the contact as well.
After making a few initial contacts, call them and meet with them again. Even if you are not selling them anything at the moment, they may have some more valuable leads for you. You not only increase your business, but you'll make some new friends as well.
Networking is all about building trust and relationships. Be honest in your meetings and other people will see you as someone in whom to place their trust.
Being a helpful person who practices honesty and integrity, is the best way to network, and to operate your business.
