Good afternoon Mom's Inc. Silver Spring Members and Friends,
I thought that it would be important to share tips and insights regarding the entrepeneurs greatest marketing tool -- Networking.
I know that there are days when we feel that we're too busy, too tired or just plain feeling unfriendly and networking is the last thing on our minds or at least the last thing that we want to do. But it is essential to the success of our businesses. Here are a few tips that I would like to share to make your networking more successful.
1. SHOW UP. I know that seems obvious, but how many of us have members in our various groups that we've never laid our eyes on? If you can't show up to meet me and my girls then quite frankly, I don't think you deserve my business or my referrals.
2. BE PUNCTUAL. Now, I know that I'm guilty of tardiness, but it is rude. Not only that, but you can begin some meaningful conversations before the meeting is officially called to order. Remember, we're here to connect with one another not just hand out business cards.
3. BRING BUSINESS CARDS. I know again you're thinking, "well duh!" But I have met countless engaging, interesting folks that I've had a lead for or wanted to work with but they didn't have any contact information with them. If you don't have cards or some other means of contact info to distribute, it shows a lack of preparation and can look negative to the other business people that you're there to impress.
4. BE FRIENDLY. Smiles are free and memorable. 'Nuff said.
5. LEARN NAMES. Again, this is a weak area for me but is something that I'm working on. It is frustrating to see someone month after month and each time they see you they have to re-introduce themselves! At least if you don't know their name try to know what they do. If you can't remember "Emily" then call her "Truffle Lady." At least it shows that you were paying attention.
6. FOLLOW-UP. This is all meaningless unless you follow-up and develop relationships with those in your group. Otherwise you're just another business card in the pile.
For more information regarding Marketing Help and Insight please contact me at JulieSHolly@ExecExtend.com. Happy Networking!
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1 comment:
Here are 10 Tips I use when preparing to go and going to a networking function:
Keep in mind that networking is about being genuine and authentic, building trust and relationships, and seeing how you can help others.
Ask yourself what your goals are in participating in networking meetings so that you will pick groups that will help you get what you are looking for. Some meetings are based more on learning, making contacts, and/or volunteering rather than on strictly making business connections.
Visit as many groups as possible that spark your interest. Notice the tone and attitude of the group. Do the people sound supportive of one another? Does the leadership appear competent? Many groups will allow you to visit two times before joining.
Hold volunteer positions in organizations. This is a great way to stay visible and give back to groups that have helped you.
Ask open-ended questions in networking conversations. This means questions that ask who, what, where, when, and how as opposed to those that can be answered with a simple yes or no. This form of questioning opens up the discussion and shows listeners that you are interested in them.
Become known as a powerful resource for others. When you are known as a strong resource, people remember to turn to you for suggestions, ideas, names of other people, etc. This keeps you visible to them.
Have a clear understanding of what you do and why, for whom, and what makes your doing it special or different from others doing the same thing. In order to get referrals, you must first have a clear understanding of what you do that you can easily articulate to others.
Be able to articulate what you are looking for and how others may help you. Too often people in conversations ask, "How may I help you?" and no immediate answer comes to mind.
Follow through quickly and efficiently on referrals you are given. When people give you referrals, your actions are a reflection on them. Respect and honor that and your referrals will grow.
Call those you meet who may benefit from what you do and vice versa. Express that you enjoyed meeting them, and ask if you could get together and share ideas.
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