How To Network The Crap Out Of A Room
Networking is a skill. Working a room isn’t the same as attending a room.
Lots of people attend, but few know the secrets that can make networking so profitable.
The Basics
Take literature with you. Whether it’s business cards, leaflets, brochures or whatever. Interested people will struggle to get in touch if you don’t make it easy for them to do so.
Smile. You may not feel comfortable, you may not be in your comfort zone, but smile. Act like you are enjoying yourself and are pleased to meet people. It will make you more approachable.
Never be the first give your business card, show some interest in the people you are talking to and ask for their cards. They in turn will then accept yours gratefully.
Networking is a skill. The most important thing to remember is that you are not there to sell to these people, you are there to build relationships so that these people sell your goods and services for you.
Networking works best when you learn to piggyback off businesses with similar client bases to your own.
A domestic decorator and an interior designer have similar clients. If you are smart about building your business, align yourself with non competing businesses that already have the clients that you are looking for.
Often the best way of getting a business owner to help you is to help them. Everyone is at a networking event because they want to find new business opportunities. Pay attention to who they want to meet and do what you can to help them and in return, they will subconsciously feel obliged to reciprocate and help you with new business opportunities too.
Learn how to become a serious networker at top networking events.
It’s often said in networking circles that you only get out what you put in and it’s very true. If you help others, they will help you.