A successful business depends on the creation of new relationships.
Whether it is with prospective new clients, referral sources, potential joint venture relationships, employees or contractors, or individuals who have businesses that support your business (like VAs, bookkeepers, etc.), networking is an important part of your success.
And while being a solopreneur can be exhilarating, building your network can feel like scaling Mount Everest in flip-flops.
Here are 5 tips to help you become a master networker – whether you are networking in person or online.
1 ) Pre-game Planning:
- Before you even sign up for a networking event, check to see if your specific target audience is going to be there. If not, find another event!
- Create a goal of what you want to accomplish at the event. Is it to get more clients? Is it to make more joint venture connections? Going to a network event with a plan will help you spend your time more efficiently.
2) Master Your Intro:
- You have about 5 seconds to impress a new contact. When someone asks you, “What do you do?”, do you have a one-line intro that tells them right away who you are, who you work with, and how you help your target audience?
- Try this format if you do not have something in place yet. 1) I help… (your niche) 2) with what? (get more clients, lose weight, start a business, etc.) 3) how? (using my proven method…)
- Extra PRO TIP – After you say your 1-line intro…STOP TALKING. Wait for the person to respond. If you have crafted your 1-liner properly and you are in front of the right person, they will naturally say something like, “That sounds interesting. Tell me more.” Then you can expand on the information.
3) Be a Connector, Not Just a Collector:
- When chatting it up with other networkers, ask them what THEY are looking to get from this event. If you know someone who can help them, pay it forward and make the introduction. As Zig Ziglar said, “You can have everything in life you want if you will just help other people get what they want.”
4) Don’t Be a Card Pusher:
- If you have ever gone to a live networking event, you know what I am talking about. Don’t be one of those people who bring a stack of business cards into a networking event with the goal of making sure every single person in the room gets one.
- Attend with purpose. Only hand your card to people you meet that you can actually do business with.
5) Follow Up:
- As they say, the fortune is in the follow-up. It is great that you made a connection and got some contact info, however, it means nothing if you do not follow up.
- Connect on social media.
- Send an email to begin nurturing the relationship.
Bonus Tip: Be authentically you! Let your personality shine through, and don’t be afraid to show your passion for what you do.
People who connect with genuine enthusiasm are remembered.
Networking is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient, consistent, and strategic.
By putting these tips into practice, you’ll build a powerful network that helps your business reach new heights.
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If you are looking for more like-minded business owners to connect with, come and join our community on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/bizbliss.