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7 Reasons to Network

Here are 7 ideas about networking

Trudy VanBuskirk

August 07, 2008

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There are many articles written about networking but you have to DO what they say! Here are 7 ideas. You have thought of them but have you done them yet?

1. Get out to get thinking. Meet people. Choose the right group AFTER defining your target market. Getting out also means you aren't "stale" doing the same thing. You have something to look forward to. Gas is expensive and "carpooling" makes driving cheaper and gives you somebody to talk to. You'll feel good no matter what.

2. Use ezines to meet people. You probably don't know all of the people who sign up for your newsletter when they register on your website. Look at their email address. If it says something like [email protected] then the last part is the name of their website. For example, mine is www.smallbizbuilder.com . Some people use their hotmail, gmail or AOL so you can't find them. Go to their website, look at every page and then get in touch. You may connect and have a good reason to do business!

3. Choose the “right” groups. Whom do you want to sell to? What do you want them to buy from you?

* Have several "elevator pitches" ready. You don't know which works best, who’ll attend, and what you want to promote.

* What is the event location? Do you want to go there? Does your target market go there?

* What does it cost ? Do you have to be a member? How many sessions can you attend without joining?

* Can you stand and tell everyone what you do or do you have to "mingle" and meet  as many people as possible?

* Is there a featured speaker talking about a topic that you would like to learn? Will the speaker and/ or the topic attract people you want to speak with?

* Where, how, and to whom is the event marketed?

* Is there a website where you can get answers to your questions?

4. Connect with others that you meet. Keep a database of people you've met. Enter what they do. Talk to them about things other than their business and you also know what they did before and what they're interested in . Introduce them to each other or send them and the person you referred them to an email. This is great because you have a reason to stay in touch.

Here are some connections you can make:

* Artists with restaurants, coffee shops, spas, stores.

* Authors & musicians with bookstores for readings / presentations/ music.

* Book on Healthy Eating/ Lifestyles with a store that sells running things.

* How to get your house ready to sell talk by a home stager with a flower/ garden shop or one that sells "knick knacks" for homes.

* Personal chefs/ caterers with a chocolate shop, a cookbook store, a tea or a coffee shop.

* OR … introduce someone with a new business to those who are “seasoned”.

5. Watch their faces when you describe your business. That can tell you a lot. It's difficult because you may not feel comfortable with public speaking or you want to have a "perfect" speech. They may smile and nod if they agree with you or it describes them. They may look puzzled and confused by what you said. They may appear shocked. They may frown as if they disagree. All are excellent because you have a reason to speak to them to ask why they made that expression and what they would like to know. The only thing you DON'T want to observe is indifference. Then you haven’t said anything "memorable" and you know you must change your "elevator speech".

6. Make use of the concept of “back at you”. You have a great conversation. You knew that they had what you needed or would refer you to someone they endorsed. ASK them if you can send them your newsletter. Have them write “newsletter” on their business card. Send them an email with a copy of your last newsletter.

7. Build a relationship. Meet people. See them often.  Go to events. You never know who you'll meet, what they do, what they did before, who they know ... or what YOU can give. And you'll feel good no matter what happens.

You never know what will work. One thing is sure though. They'll remember you as the person who gave them an idea. Say something that gets their attention!

Many of my clients are people I've met at networking events.

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