For a ‘born socialiser’, making the most of meeting people, expanding their circle of business contacts and building on those relationships is effortless.
But not all of us are quite as confident at ‘working a room’. However, business networking is a vital part of success when starting a business and, thankfully, a skill that can be developed.
Why network in business?
There are two big advantages to networking: knowledge exchange and creating opportunities. Business social events, ideas and opportunities go hand in hand.
Knowledge exchange
The exchange of knowledge with other business owners is extremely important when you’re starting or running a business. The wisdom of someone who has been there and done it can help prevent you from making the same mistakes.
The exchange of knowledge with other business owners is extremely important when you’re starting or running a business
There are few business problems that someone, somewhere hasn’t overcome. Wouldn’t you appreciate networking with an entrepreneur who has solved similar problems to those which you now face?
In turn, sharing your knowledge builds your reputation too.
Business leads
Word of mouth should never be underestimated. You may think you don’t have a sales force, but every time you make a new business contact you have the chance to turn that contact into a business lead and for them to pass on word of your services to others.
Remember, you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. Research shows that it only takes a few seconds to form a very detailed opinion about someone and every new business contact you meet could mean new business.
So how do you maximise business networking opportunities?
Do your research
Find out which organisations offer you opportunities to contact the people relevant to your business.
This doesn’t just mean events often organised by enterprise agencies and chambers of commerce or exhibitions. It can also be sports clubs, gallery openings and online business forums.
It’s a cliché but nevertheless true that a lot of business is done on the golf course. Widening your hobbies and interests can open doors to other business people and potential networking opportunities.
Prepare to engage
With little time to make an impression, get it right first time. Not just what you’re going to say, but how you look and behave, and how you react to the people you meet.
It’s essential to think networking through and practice. If you’re unsure how you come over, ask someone you trust and listen to their ideas.
Being fully prepared helps build your confidence before networking events and the more you practice, the easier it gets.
Work on a pithy and interesting definition of what you do. No one wants to hear a rambling story.
Think about how to encourage people to describe what they do. Learn about them and introduce them to others.
