Every entrepreneur knows the power of networking, but do you know exactly how to go about building your network?
Successful networking isn’t just about adding people to your Contacts list, but about forming long-term relationships that are mutually beneficial. Here are a few ways to build a network that will last for years.
Know your goals, and your skills
If you want to start networking, you need to know realistically what it is you would like to get from this network. Is it advice, new business, partnership contacts or to spread the word about your product? In return, what have you got to offer the network? Remember that it’s only in a win-win situation that networking truly thrives.
Build confidence
Throwing yourself into a high-pressure business situation when you’re not quite comfortable with networking might not be the right way to begin. Start small, with people you know – old friends, distant relatives, friends of friends – and build it from there. This will also give you a ‘practice ground’ to be able to refine what your message is. Networking is about building relationships, not rehearsing a sales pitch, so try to keep your exchanges as human as possible.
Learn how to start conversations
It doesn’t have to be about anything important or even vaguely linked to your business – start with simple, easy questions, like “Have you been to an event like this before?” Don’t forget to listen to the answer, and respond thoughtfully – listening is as important a skill as being able to communicate your ideas. Starting a conversation will keep you from hanging around the room waiting for someone else to say something interesting, and make you appear more confident than you might feel.
Be enthusiastic
Share your passion when it’s time to talk about your business, and don’t forget to smile – an easy and effective networking tool! Instead of launching into all the practical reasons you started your business, tell a story about what inspired you to want to be in this field. Also remember to be equally enthusiastic about other people – making others feel special and valued is probably the most important thing you could do while networking.
Keep in contact
Once you’ve made a connection with someone you’d like to continue interacting with, be sure to follow up – in good time. If you want real business-building contacts, you need to build a relationship through networking, not just gather a bunch of business cards. Networking and building a network is a long-term process that can have potentially great rewards if you put the time and dedication necessary into it.
How much networking have you done for your business? Is it something you enjoy?