The Secrets and Keys to Successful Business Networking

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Are you still overwhelmed by the idea of networking?

Whether you like it, or not, the ability to network effectively is a key factor towards a successful business or career. Soon, you will have to learn to embrace networking techniques and think of them as positive things that you can do for yourself, and your business.

You need to become truly comfortable speaking with all types of people and develop your “art of networking.” You have to network for your business, and in other areas of your life. It’s essential if you want to create a successful career and to keep your business up and running.

Truly, networking is an art, for there is no ‘exact’ or ‘right-way’ to go about it. Just because something works for one entrepreneur, doesn’t necessarily mean that it will work for you. This is why you need to create your own environment, one that is appropriate for you, your lifestyle and your business.

You just have to find the right mix of people!

Secrets to Successful Networking

If the word “networking” frightens you, just think of it as a meaningful conversation that will create a productive, work relationship. Networking is a building process that will help you create, establish and nurture strong connections and lasting relationships with others.

What you really need, is to continuously create new connections, while nurturing the relationships you already have. Treat your network as a group of people that serve and support each other. If you have an attitude about your business, and how it’s all about you, you’re going to be less successful.

The best secret to business networking is that “It’s not all about you; it’s about what you can do for them.”

Once you get to know people, you should let them know about you and your business. When you attend a conference or a networking event, don’t expect to make sales, just let others know what you’re capable of doing for them. Get a referral or a potential client, don’t seek out profits. Try to get to know people and develop trust, and a deeper connection. Listen to others and see what they have to share with you too! Find that rapport and build on it.

Avoid Hard Sell

Networking is not only about marketing your brand, but also, yourself. It’s not a strategy that focuses only on a sales pitch. You aren’t going to establish the lasting connections you want, if you always introduce your business and keep talking about your products and services. People want to get to know you and they won’t appreciate you shoving your sales pitch down their throats. Start by informing people about what you do casually, in meaningful conversation. A brief sales pitch that lasts no longer than 20-30 seconds is what you need. You have to view networking as a way to create new relationships over time, expanding your network one person at a time.

Be Genuine

Let your conversation flow naturally. Even though you want to put your best foot forward, it is important to be real. Building a genuine relationship with a client is impossible with trust and honesty.

You can begin your conversations by finding your comfort zone. This is something that’s appreciated much more than just spewing out all the details about your business and products. There are many interesting topics you can talk about besides your business. If you want something to talk about, try committing to F.O.R.M. This stands for Family, Occupation, Recreation and Message. The first three are great to lead into your Message, the information about your company and services.

Meet People

When people attend big events or social gathering, the tendency is to find someone you know so you can group up and hang out. It might seem easy to do in theory, but remember that you are also there to meet new people.

Approach new people, and talk to them. The easiest way to do so is to look for someone else who is alone and start a casual conversation. Mingle; talk to several people, including those from your own corporation and to those who wouldn’t be your ‘perfect targets’.

Be Visible

Put yourself in a position to meet other people and introduce people you know, to each other. You have to network offline – within your organization or your industry – and online. Take time to attend business meetings, trade shows and exhibits, professional associations, social and alumni gatherings and become part of social networking websites.

When you take an active role in your personal and professional community, you will build your reputation and your credibility. It is only then that you can begin to have others seek you out as a resource, or someone to be trusted.

Learn to master the art of networking and see other businesses open their doors to you. Sure, it will take time and practice, but the rewards are many – from business connections to a steady stream of clients!

As you help others achieve their goals, you’ll get to meet your own objectives as well.

So, get proactive! Connect and step forward!

Are you interested in networking and how to be successful? Pamela  Finnesand, The Business Maximizer, will assist you. Schedule your complimentary Business Breakthrough Strategy Session today!