The Business Networking Toolkit – Cheat Sheet
By Jeffrey
DeSocio – AIMC Business Solutions/Mass Professional Networking
Why is Professional Networking Important Today?
- Networking can help you start your own
business, climb the career ladder.
- Networking is a long-term investment,
leads to lifelong friendships.
- Business people that network are
usually great positive influences to be around.
- Increase in confidence as you push
yourself to talk & connect with new people.
- Expand you sphere of influence and practice & perfect talking about your business.
- Ask questions at business networking opportunities as a form of market research.
- You will meet people that you don’t normally come across in your everyday life.
PLAN - What to Do before the Networking Event:
•
Get your business cards ready
•
Eat first, since it is awkward eating food while
socializing
•
Know your Goals and Purpose
•
Understand the Dress Code
•
Remember Everyone Is There for the Same Reason
•
Get Your LinkedIn Profile
Ready to Network – All-Star LinkedIn Profile
o Start with A
Professional Profile Picture – Of Course!
o Professional Header
With Targeted Keywords
o Concise Summary With
Media Links
o Don't Be Shy With
Experience for each Job
o Complete Education
Section
o Practical Examples
& Recommendations
ACTION - What to Do at the Networking Event:
•
First,
get to the event on-time
•
If
you are shy, ask the host to help introduce you to people
•
When
meeting someone, use eye contact and repeat their name
• Ask questions, and do not pitch and/or have a roving eye
Questions to Ask To Engage in Conversation
What is your biggest professional accomplishment and how did you achieve it?
Who is your favorite business mentor, whether it is a colleague or a celebrity
What is your favorite business book, show or podcast?
What is your biggest challenge in business?
Who is your perfect client and who can I introduce you to?
What is your top marketing and networking strategy?
What social media platform do you use the most to market your business?
What is your favorite business networking group?
What other talents do you have? For example, do you play a musical instrument?
FOLLOW-UP – What to Do after the Networking Event:
•
Send a “Nice To Meet
You Email – Personalize it and mention something you chatted about.
•
Connect on LinkedIn
and review profile in anticipation of a follow-up meeting.
•
After initial meeting
whether on phone or in person, set up your calendar to reconnect
•
Remember events such
as birthdays and anniversa.ry events for business or career milestones.
•
Give Give Give
First. Be a resource forever for your
new connection.
Need more guidance to kick-start your Business Networking?
Ask
us about the “Networking & Personal Branding Toolkit” by contacting us via
email at jeff@aimcbizsolutions.com. Also join Mass Professional Networking on LinkedIn
and Facebook.
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