The ability to network is not an inherited quality that many are born with. It is simply the process of developing mutually gratifying/advantageous relationships with like-minded people and businesses and, more importantly, can be earned, honed and developed.
Business Networking is a marketing tool; crucial to the success of you and your business that can take a variety of different forms. From face-to-face business conferences, to less formal coffee or after-work drinks meetings, business networking is the defacto best way to build long lasting trustful professional relationships!
We are lucky here in Boston, with all the amazing networking organizations and meetups. It is an easy city to network in with lots of aspiring professionals and opportunity to succeed.
Whether you are at the beginning of your career or a business veteran embarking down a new road, here are a few do’s and don’ts about networking to help you succeed.
The Do's:
- Put your best Foot Forward – There is no benefit sitting in the corner by yourself. Don’t be afraid to say hello to people around you. The chances are they are just as nervous as you. Also, it is a business networking event, not a dating event!
- “Elevator Pitch” – Be quick, concise and accurate when describing your business. Ensure you engage your listener from the get-go and be interactive and engage in a two-way conversation
- Follow up – Whats the use of meeting people if you don’t follow up afterward? Remember, they may know someone that can be your next client, business partner or friend.
- Listen and learn – This is a valuable lesson in life and not just business. Take time to learn from others’ experiences. The rule of thumb is to listen 80% of the time and talk 20% of the time.
- Quid-pro-quo – You cannot expect to get something without offering anything in return. Offer free help, favors, advice or reduced cost services. Everyone is an expert in something and has something to offer.
- Don’t be timid – and only talk to people you already know. Networking isn’t just for the flamboyant big-shots or charismatic colleagues.
- Don’t only speak to one person – The more the better. You didn't go to a networking event to meet one person for a drink.
- Avoid overzealous self-promotion – This tactic is more likely to annoy than build valuable relationships. Remember people don't care about you, they care about building their professional network!
- Don’t forget to follow up – this is so important, we’re saying it twice. The most important tip of all!
- Don’t get drunk – Especially at the more informal social events, there is the chance they will be serving alcohol. Even though a little cocktail courage can help the confidence, appearing intoxicated is the worst thing you could possibly do. The same goes for bad breath!
There you go, so practice some of these tips at upcoming networking events in your area!
This is a valuable and important blog for networking events that should be followed both by beginner as well as by expert too in order to grow its productivit of business.
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