Business networking is an effective low-cost marketing method for developing sales opportunities and contacts based on referrals and introductions. Here are ten of the most important principles for effective business networking.
Over the next few weeks we will dive deeper into these principles to help you gain a better understanding and improve your networking success as you implement these skills. These tips apply broadly to any sort of business networking; face-to-face, organized events, business social networking websites, etc:
Ten Essential Principles
1. Elevator speech (30 second message). | Describe yourself concisely and impressively. |
2. Be different. | Differentiate yourself. Aim high. Be best at something. |
3. Help others. | Help others and you will be helped. |
4. Personal integrity. | Integrity, trust and reputation are vital for networking. |
5. Relevant targeting. | Groups and contacts relevant to your aims and capabilities. |
6. Plans and aims. | Plan your networking and know what you want. |
7. Follow up. | Following up on meetings and referrals makes things happen. |
8. Be positive. | Be a positive influence on everyone and everything. |
9. Sustained focused effort. | Be focused and ever-ready. |
10. Life balance. | Being balanced and grounded builds assurance. |
Some really great content is coming your way over the next few weeks. Be sure to ready our weekly #30SecondGo! blog for the expanded version of these great topics and gain insight into becoming a better connector through your business networking.
If you’d like some additional insight now, register for our “Maximize Your Networking“ course. You will learn the skills you need to become a more effective networker and build strong relationships with your potential clients and referral partners. Register today or schedule a call to learn more about how we help professionals like you become more effective at connecting with your network.
