Networking
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Networking is sometimes seen as a bad word, some people dread networking. It is like all things in life, there are good networks and bad networks. The Trick is so find the networks that suit your needs.
- Networking is about "connecting & collecting" (Tricia Fox from BEE)
- Networking is essential - it is not a choice!
Why Network
- Learn from others: Everyone person has knowledge you can use to better your business. At networking events you can often pick up very useful tips and contacts free.
- New business: The new client will probably be a third party
- Help people: Generally if you help people they will help you, e.g. at the We-entrepreneurs lunches everyone helps each other, no one has 'sold' to each other, but everyone did business with each other. One of the main reasons is, if you help others it builds trust.
- Good feeling: The best networkers get a buzz from connecting people, and it usually gets paid back, if you help the right people.
- Recruitment: Through networking you can pick up additional team members, advisors and mentors from a trusted peer group rather than having to pay a recruitment agency to do it.
- Skill building: Being able to communicate effectively to others, whether it is employees, customers or investors is key to running a successful business and regular networking helps you to build and refine these important skills.
Networking Guidelines
Some tips on what to do when you are networking:
- Smile
- Include others
- Introduce people
- Have an "escape plan"
After Networking?
1. Follow up:
- It is essential that you follow up within 24 hours or at very least within 48hours, while you are still fresh in their minds.
2. Track your ROI:
- You should have a record, for example on an excel sheet, that records what networking events you have gone to, and then mark against the new business that has directly or indirectly come from those events over a 1 or 2 year period. This will enable you to really assess if some networks are worthwhile form a marketing angle and which networks will provide other aspects such as learning from fellow entrepreneurs.
3. Horses for courses:
- You can't go to every networking event, so choose which are the best ones for you.
