How To Maximize on Networking
When I first started networking I was surrounded by business professionals from introductory like myself to CEOs. I was thrust into the fires with no guidance. I had to learn after a while how to really benefit from networking after it was shoved down my throat on how important it was. I was going, handing out my business card, talking with people, yet, there was absolutely no return on my investment in this. So, how exactly was this a benefit? I finally figured it out and now I can share some great networking tip and how you too can maximize on these events.
First off, you really need to figure out which networking events benefit you the most. Is the event a weekly one where you build a support system and possible hub of referrals or is it a once a month thing where the purpose is to push your product or service to those that could use you? Both have their strengths and weaknesses and as you develop your personal brand you will be able to define which one is best for your time, budget, and investment. At either one you should really work on a proper presentation of yourself and this is done through an engaging and interesting elevator pitch. Keep it short and sweet yet without too much information so others seek more information about you. Business cards have great potential for creating impact and get people wanting to keep it. You'll want to stray from simplicity and just what I like to call a calling card. You are an entrepreneur and it really needs to speak about the experience they will have with your business. Don't forget to put your social media links on there too! Follow through. You will no doubt be collecting a huge amount of business cards and we all want referrals and build our network so take the initiative and follow through with an email, message on social media, and connections. Always be thinking about the impression you want to leave people with. KEEP GOING! Yes, these events can time consuming and sometimes even expensive though the more you go the more people get to know you and the bigger benefit you get on that investment. Educate as much as you can about you and your service and offer tidbits of information to show how knowledgable and professional you are. No-one really knows unless they experience it from you so provide that at every opportunity you can. Hey, it's FREE marketing!
