Before you start to network, you must have the right attitude and expectations.
Networking events and informal get-togethers are an extension of your business, but remember that they are only a means to an end.
To be successful at networking you have to move out of your comfort zone and ‘make an effort’ to get out and about, even when you don’t feel like it.
Just because you’ve had a bad day at work, it is not an excuse to cancel going to an event, but remember not to take the day’s woes with you.
Always dress for the occasion.
Dress the way your customers dress, or at least the way they expect you to dress.
First impressions are made in a matter of seconds – and you don’t get a second chance to make that good first impression.
The fun tie or scarf given to you for Christmas may not have the impact you were looking for.
Networking is an ongoing process and not an end in itself.
Your business success can depend on you constantly making new business contacts, following up correctly and keeping in touch with them.
Networking is not about trying to sell your product or service; it is about building relationships and helping others.
What goes around, comes around or as Zig Ziglar says:
“You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want”
The very British way of not promoting ourselves, gets you nowhere in networking.
You have to learn to “blow your own trumpet”.
At networking events, you have to talk about yourself, but don’t overdo it!
Avoid constantly using the word I, I, I… People will simply switch off.
Develop a clear message about what you do and practice it.
Don’t go to any networking event with the expectation that you will make a sale at the first contact. You must build on and work at relationships.
You must learn to give before you can get:
Try and look for learning opportunities.
Keep your ears open to ideas that may help you in your business or in other areas of your life and especially opportunities for your business colleagues.
Always make a good impression.
Be polite and courteous; always try and show that you are passionate about what you do and that you are hardworking and successful.
If you need to: “Fake it ’till you make it!”
Understand when networking is appropriate.
Social events are usually off limits, the primary reason people are there is to have fun, not talk business.
You must learn to respect your network – most people are willing to help, but don’t abuse your position.
Never Use and Abuse:
Good networking takes practice, so practice, practice and practice some more – put yourself into as many networking situations as possible.
Don’t confuse networking ‘activity’ with networking ‘success’.
Make sure you are connecting with new people, not just ‘hanging out’ with existing contacts.
Before looking for success, remember to put together; Your Networking Tool Kit:
• Your Business Cards – lots of them. Your own, clean, uncreased and with the correct details
• Your Name Badge – Your name, company and company logo – all spelt correctly in your corporate colours.
• Any Flyers or brochures you want to distribute.
• Try and use a Tri-fold brochure, these will slip into an inside pocket of a jacket or a handbag.
• Your Marketing Message (or Personal Presentation.)
• Breath fresheners
And don’t forget a pen!
And finally – Enjoy yourself.