For many entrepreneurs and business people networking is a potential source of building the kinds of relationships which will translate into great business or provide support and the ability to share ideas and learning.
Do we always make best use of the opportunities we are presented with though?
Here are our top tips for networking.
1. This is not about selling but how many times have you met someone only to feel that you dont really know what they do or what their business does? Prepare a quick and easy way of introducing yourself and practice it. People want to know who you are and what you do make sure they get a key message about you and understand your area of business and what you believe in. It only takes 10 seconds to for a first impression.
2. Think about what you want to achieve from the event you attend, dont go without prepping. Find out as much as possible about who will be going and what sort of things are going to be on the agenda or being talked about.
3. Meet people as people first and foremost. Show an interest in them and talk about other things not just business. You are building a relationship not selling. Listen to the person and hear what they are saying try not to dominate a conversation.
4. You are not collecting business cards. Network with a purpose and follow up. This is about the quality of a conversation and creating a depth rather than simply filling your drawers full of cards. Follow people up. Email them and say how nice it was to meet them. Dont leave the conversation there. This is about reciprocity and trust letting them know that you really wanted to connect. Try twitter or linkedin as well to connect in more spheres and remember they may well be involved in online groups as well.
5. Leave your troubles at home. No one wants you to be gloomy when they first meet you so put on a smile. It may sound trite but really people dont want to connect with someone who looks forbidding or hostile they will look for people who are looking happy and smile at them. Be energetic, positive and outgoing dont start talking about how awful things are at home or the worst thing which happened on your journey. Look glad to be there and use your time well.
CBPartners run plenty of networking events and some of them are free.
1. Oyster and Otter events with a masterclass and then networking over a great meal - next one on November 22nd on Lean Leadership
2. Employers Forums - supported by Blackburn College - next one on Tuesday 6th December Blackburn Enterprise Centre
3. HR employers forums - supported by Forbes Solicitors - next one on Wednesday 9th November Clayton Park Conference Centre
4. Get fit for business - whole day event next one on sales excellence 10th November 9-4.30pm Blackburn Enterprise Centre
Get in touch with our business support on 01254 505050 for more information on any of these.
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