Networking: 9 Tips You Need to Succeed

Everyone is looking to grow their business on a shoestring budget during these troubled economic times, and networking has become extremely popular as one of the most effective and inexpensive ways to meet potential new leads. But there is a strategy for success. You can’t just show up, hang out in a corner and think that your business is going to grow. You need to be an active player in this game!

1. Choose carefully. Opportunities abound! You could spend hours each day at these events if you wanted, but most of us have limited time to invest so select networking events that are the best fit for your business.  If you attend a couple of events and don’t seem to be “connecting” with a particular group of people, simply redirect and try a new networking group.
2. Dress to impress. It still holds true that “you only get one chance to make a first impression!” Dress professionally to establish credibility and show that you are a dedicated business professional.
3. Take plenty of business cards (and be determined to dispense ALL of them). We’re often amazed at the number of people who never seem to have business cards with them because the whole point of networking is to seek out potential business relationships. By exchanging cards, it’ll be easier for your new acquaintance to remember you and contact you in the future.
4. Prepare yourself. You will introduce yourself repeatedly at a networking event so prepare and rehearse a 30-second introduction that clearly tells people who you are and what you do.
5. Set a goal for yourself. Some people are uncomfortable introducing themselves to strangers, so create a goal that will alleviate some of this tension.  Knowing that you want to walk away with 5 new contacts will keep you focused on why you bothered to attend in the first place. Remember that you are looking to meet people who need your product or service in an attempt to solve their problems.  Someone needs your help, so SMILE and go out there to find them.
6. Bring a networking buddy. Networking makes many people feel anxious and self-conscious.  Invite a colleague or customer who is also seeking new leads to accompany you to events. You’ll appear to be more at ease, comfortable in circulating and available to conversation.
7. Move out of your “safe” circle and split up. If you attend events with a co-worker, sit at different tables and roam different sections of the event so you can meet twice as many people than you would if you stick together. It is easy to talk to the people you already know, but remember that you’re there to renew acquaintances and make new contacts.
8. Be a good listener and ALWAYS ask questions to open and maintain a conversation.
9. Follow up after the event. An email, a note or a card is the least you should do, but when you find someone that seems like a particularly good contact for you and your business, you should arrange an appointment. Whether they are a potential customer or just a good business resource, follow up with them while your acquaintance is still fresh in their mind.

Make it about them first (people love talking about themselves) and you’ll be able to determine if this is a useful connection.  Interject that your business applies perfectly to their industry and how you can be of service.  If it doesn’t fit, chat anyway.  Always hand out a card and say it was nice to meet—they may end up being a great referral some day.

In the search for new clientele, it is human nature to network more during slow periods, but you must maintain consistency in your efforts to keep your business flow steady. And whatever you do, don’t give up! The more you network, the easier it gets. Best of luck in growing your business!