This has become my new mantra and quite honestly, I wish I would have seen the light a little earlier. However, as a small business owner swamped with trying to make sales, market the business, oversee the day-to-day operations, and oh yeah- create the product, I just never saw where “having lunch” had a worthy place in my hectic day. How could mingling be a priority when I still had bills to pay? This year I finally became a little more open-minded. With sales slowed and a little free time, I finally decided to join in on a couple happy hours and group dinners. After my first happy hour with a couple of other entrepreneurs, I had found a new CPA, brainstormed with an ex-Neiman Marcus buyer on ideas for fine tuning my line, and found a new favorite wine. Not bad, plus I actually had a good time! Letting off some steam with fellow entrepreneurs who understood my situation was exactly what I needed to help me re-focus and re-energize. Needless to say, I got the “networking” bug and have tried to incorporate some type of business mingling at least twice a month ever since. With the likelihood of continued tough times ahead of us, we all need a little help. Instead of spending money on a business coach or consultant, why not try to reach out to a couple colleagues first? Here are some ideas and tips to get you started networking like a pro:
Get social…
- Volunteer to help with organizations you believe in
- Join local trade groups, the chamber of commerce, or even Toastmasters
- Host a brunch/happy hour for parents in your child’s class
- Coordinate a block party for your neighborhood or business park
Know the etiquette…
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Listen twice as much as you talk… you’re not there to convert followers, you’re there to connect with others…
- Leave the “hard sell” at home… the possibility of making a sale is an added bonus- not a necessity…
- Have a plan… do you want advice on hiring a lawyer, feedback on your new tagline, or tips on negotiating a commercial lease? You’re more likely to accomplish your goals if you define them from the start
- Remember the golden rule… help others make introductions when you see a good fit and they will happily do the same for you
- Follow-up with referrals quickly and send thank you notes to the person who made the referral
- Be consistent… showing up once every six months is not going to help you become the “go to” guy/gal
Does anyone else have tips or suggestions for getting started networking? I’d love to hear them! Email me at [email protected] or leave a comment below…
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