Networking has become necessary to remain vital and competitive in today’s economy. It’s definitely here to stay… so let’s embrace it and become experts at effective networking!
If you accept the old phrase “people do business with people they know”, then you definitely want to hone your relationship skills. Step outside of your comfort zone and learn to use your people skills to create new business opportunities.
#1 Qualify
Be sure to search for networking groups that are a good fit for your goals. What types of businesses are you interested in targeting? What are the goals of the particular networking group you are interested in attending? Does this group provide opportunities to give back to the community? You may want to visit several different groups and develop a plan of action around how many new contacts you’d like to meet in a month. One of the more appealing features of Peoria’s Chamber of Commerce networking meetings is their membership consists of a large diversified group of businesses. You’re sure to meet people that you can expand your business with, and you with theirs. Fortunately, as an Independent Distributor with SendOutCards, everyone I meet – wherever I go – is a potential client; but networking through the Chamber allows for the development of working and personal relationships, as well as providing an opportunity to get more involved in community service.
#2 Giving
One of the most important and effective philosophies of networking is that you should be honestly lending a helping hand to potential clients and to always be helping others first. Maybe you could suggest a good book with regards to personal development or pertinent to a subject that was discussed, or a website, a referral, or a warm introduction to another client. How can you serve more in your community on a volunteer basis? This will lead to earning the trust and respect of your peers. Networking is about building lasting relationships. Through giving, we are guaranteed to receive.
#3 Be Prepared
At most networking groups, as with the Chamber, you will have the opportunity to present a one or two minute “commercial” about your business. This is where you will be able to showcase how you can help others build their business through your services. (Don’t forget to bring plenty of business cards!) Remember, you are there to build trust, credibility and relationships. Let people know that you are excited to be a dynamic contributor to their success.
If you feel a bit challenged when it comes to public speaking, the Peoria Chamber of Commerce also provides a venue for Toastmasters – a group dedicated to helping others improve their public speaking skills and is eagerly encourages new members.
#4 Listen
It’s important to listen to what your fellow networker has to say. Ask questions of a new contact and show a genuine interest in who they are. What are their business goals? What are their interests and background? What makes a good referral for them? How can you help them achieve their goals? Think about the last time you felt someone had a genuine interest in your success and truly listened to you. Use this opportunity to get to know a few people and the next time you see each other you will be rewarded with a much easier rapport.
#5 Follow–Up
Perhaps one of the most overlooked, yet crucial protocols of business networking, is following up with your contacts. If you say you will send them a follow – up email with a referral, a quote, or a bit of information you said you would send along – make sure to do so within 48 hours. One of your goals should be maintaining your presence at the forefront of your contacts’ thoughts for referrals. This aspect of networking is a place for you to develop your leadership skills and set the example for people that you are a “go-to” kind of person. Go the extra mile; send a thank you card, an email mentioning a memorable aspect of your conversation, or invite them to coffee just to get to know them better. The results will amaze you!
People do business with people they know, like, and trust. Gone are the days where business owners lived by the philosophy of opening a business with the expectation that unlimited numbers of people will just show up for whatever service is offered. As Maya Angelou says: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Be yourself, be real, and have fun.
Ready to test your new networking skills? Join us for scheduled networking events. Be our guest. Visit www.peoriachamber.com and look for the next mixer, ribbon-cutting or twice monthly structure networking–Peoria Connections.
