Dear reader, today I thought I would list my top 10 tips for successful business networking. Are you considering a networking event in your local area? Maybe you are looking to drum up some new business or increase brand awareness? Whatever your reason, these are exciting times because business networking can open many new doors and create new business opportunities. So, here we go? My top 10 tips for successful business networking:
1. Dress to impress at each networking event
Ok, if you are Richard Branson and you turn up at a business-networking event dressed in shorts, a t-shirt and flip-flops, then you might get away with it! However, the fact is people do tend to judge a book by its cover, and in this case a businessman / women by her suit and shiny shoes! If you are serious about business, networking and selling a product or service face to face to people you have never met then I would suggest you invest in a decent suit. Not only will you look the business, I personally find it helps boost confidence and offers assurance to others.
2. When networking be genuine and respect others
In life I feel it is important to be both honest and genuine? Especially in the world of business! If you are a sole trader then you will be limited to the amount of work you can physically take on, so telling some dude who has the potential to generate you business that you have 20+ staff is not a wise move! I guess we all over-sell our business / brand from time to time, however it is important to respect others and not offer or promote things you can not deliver.
3. Don?t shy away from the crowd
At any networking event you will find the room divided up into groups, different characters, some bold and loud, others more reserved and shy. Whatever kind of person you are, being able to interact with everyone is vital for business! Ok, you may not like the sound or look of someone, however an introduction, quick chat and exchange of business card could result in enquiries later down the line. Remember, if you are not in it, you will never win it!
4. Always have a notepad and pen to hand
Notepads are just awesome for networking and business ideas / planning. Investing in a small notepad to take with you to all events in a must? It also shows people that you are serious about what they have to say, ok don?t quote them word for word, however it wont hurt to pause once or twice during a conversation and list any important facts, names or email addresses.
5. Listen to others and what they can offer your business
Lets face it; the reason you are networking in the first place is to grow your own business by increasing contacts and building relationships with other people and businesses? It truly is a no-brainer! To achieve this you will need to listen to others and maybe see beyond the initial meeting / conversation to identify exactly what it is they can offer you. For example, if you are happy with a current supplier but some things are not perfecto then a business card of a new possible supplier filed away for future reference wont hurt! At any business networking events you should look beyond the initial meeting.
6. Prepare some questions in advance to keep a conversation flowing
We all hate those moments when a conversation dries up! The trick is not to stress about it but laugh about it, have a few business (or weather) related comments / questions in the back of your mind to wind down the conversation? Think of the networking event as speed dating, yes you may hit it off with one person however you should be short and sweet with lots of people and not invest all your time into one individual or group of people? Having a polite exist strategy may help.
7. Shake hands with people
Keep your hands out your pockets! When meeting fellow business owners and start-ups it is important to show your energy and passion for success and business? I think shaking hands with people helps them remember you and feel more relaxed around you, two important things when talking business!
8. Be proud of your business and note achievements
If you are a start-up then I would suggest listing a couple of things you are working on right now in terms of marketing, branding and developing the business. People like to see and hear about pro-active new businesses, so be proud about it! If on the other hand you are a slightly more established business then why not note a few of your bigger achievements over the years. It will not hurt to tell other business owners that you won X award or you work with X clients etc. If you do not believe in your business / brand then not many people will, be proud and shout that company name from the tallest building you can find!
9. Take time to reflect and make a to-do list after each event
After you have finished a networking event it is a good idea to digest this new information whilst fresh in your mind. I have often sat in my car tiding up or adding more info to the notes I have taken. It is also a good idea to reward your-self for taking time off to meet people and promote your business? Finding time to network when starting up a new business is difficult because of the work / hours involved.
10. Touch base with people after the event, build business relationships
And finally, don?t forget to call or email these fellow business owners saying that you enjoyed meeting them. Building a business relationship is like any other kind of relationship; it takes time, dedication and hard work from both parties. If meeting X was beneficial to your business and vice versa then touching base after the event is a must!
Ok, I hope you have enjoyed my top 10 tips for successful business networking? If you have your own thoughts, top tips or would like to comment below on this business networking post then please do? After all, the more networking tips the better!
Michael Jon Ward
Source: http://www.businessnetworkinglink.com/2011/05/10-tips-for-successful-business-networking/
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