Effective Business Networking
Jim Malski chats with Timothy Riley at ActionCoach Networking Night
I’m often asked by business owners;
“How do I get my new business up and running with little or no cashflow”?
My answer is always the same; Network, Network, Network!
So I decided to share some Networking Tips to help you become more effective.
10 Simple Rules to Effective Business Networking:
- Always carry a networking kit: It includes business cards (but is not limited to business cards); personal bio data etc.
- Act like a host not a guest: Introduce yourself and those you know.
- Listen and ask questions: You’re in sales so try to solve problems. Questions are the only tool in your sales kit.
- Manage your networking time: Be professional and polite. Meet people you don’t know. So often I find when attending networking events that the same people who already know one another stay in a circle talking with one another. If your not speaking to a potential lead for your business then move on. Limit the time you spend with any business.
- Record information about those that you meet: Become a collector of information. Store the information and work the database.
- Never try to close a deal while networking: What goes around comes around – just wait
- Build a Team of loose associations: Consists of people who share your values – it’s broad, relevant and pro-active ALWAYS delivers what you promise.
- Refer to your Team wherever possible: Try to match at least one referral. Refer without obligation. What goes around comes around
- Move toward the center of the sphere of influence: Take responsibility before asking for authority.
- Never give up. Keep networking and improving your elevator speech
Effective networking can lead to one of three things:
- A follow up appointment
- A referral or
- A strategic partnership
Looking for a Business Networking Events near you? Attend our upcoming ActionCOACH Business Networking Night on May 10th. Registration is limited so register now!
