Networking in business is all about building trusting relationships and friendships with other people in business. These people may be in a position to use your services or buy your product, or they may be someone who can refer your business, create some word-of-mouth momentum, elevate your personal ‘brand’ in the business world, offer you some information or training, or even offer you or your business something of growth value.

These connections can open doors for you or your business that otherwise would not have opened. Ultimately people go into business with people they know and trust. Organizations don’t make decisions, the people that work there do, and they are the ones you need to connect with.

It’s commonly considered that a major factor for success for any professional is the size and quality of their professional network, but how often do we actually do anything to strengthen this network? Too often we are passive and just expect it to grow and strengthen without any input on our end. When was the last time you made a new connection or reached out to a current one?

Below are some tips to help set you up for networking success:

1. Meet many people: increase your chances by making lots of connections. Meet as many people as you can! Some of the ways you can meet new people include conferences, networking events, Twitter, LinkedIn, alumni events, workshops and classes, personal interest groups, through other connections, and many more.
2. Know your worth: networking is more than just a business card exchange. When attending networking events it is important to be able to articulate what you do, for whom, and why people should choose you. This ‘elevator pitch’ will ensure you make a memorable impression.
3. Know your goal: what do you want to accomplish from your networking? Know your goal, create a plan, and hold yourself accountable for growing your professional network.
4. Listen: people appreciate when you show a genuine interest in what you have to say. Listening is one of the most valuable skills to have when networking. By listening to what people have to say you can learn more about them and their challenges, which can lead to a more productive and understanding professional relationship.
5. Just ask: you never know until you ask. Ask to make an introduction. Ask someone to jump on a call with you or meet up with you. Ask for some advice. Ask for what you are seeking, because if you do nothing, that’s what will happen – nothing.
6. Follow up and be visible: maintain regular and consistent communication with people you want to stay in touch with. If you lose the communication, the connection will weaken. Build a reputation for yourself as someone who is persistent and delivers on their word – but don’t go overboard. This may seem like a lot of work, but if you are determined and sincere, you never know what opportunities may arise thanks to one of these connections.
7. Keep the long term in mind: you can be a resource for your connections just as they can be for you. Reach out to them and offer your help or pass on an offer that may benefit them, and their appreciation for the gesture may just put your front-of-mind when an opportunity arises on their end that may provide you some value.

Before the first part of the year passes us by, try sitting down to develop a plan to grow your professional network. Let the tips above be your guide. If you’re looking for some more tips to help grow your business, get in touch today to find out how my business coaching can help you.