It takes time to build those personal relationships, but once they're there, the referrals will come pouring in. Once someone gets to know you and how you do your business, they will tell their friends about you. Then those friends will tell their friends and so on and so forth. You can network in person or online, but either way there are some guidelines you should follow. ProsperityPlace.com has a great list of networking tips that are sure to get your business growing!
1. Choose Proper Venues.
Every group of people has a different personality and not all of them will be right for you. Try to find groups that share common interests with you or that would be prospective clients for you. Some potential choices may be a Chamber of Commerce meeting, men's and women's groups, special interest groups and associations.
2. Develop Relationships.
Networking isn't about selling, but rather developing relationships that will eventually lead to referrals. The idea is to get to know people and let them get to know you. Show that you are interested in getting to know them, so that you can send them referrals. In return, you will probably see some referrals coming your way as well. People do business with people they know and it can take time to build that trust. Be sure to approach a networking event without expectations to close a sale. Instead flow with the idea of getting to know new people and catching up with those you already know.
3. Dress Professionally.
No one wants to do business with a slob. It makes you look like you don't know what you are doing. To establish yourself as a successful person, you need to dress the part. Now this doesn't mean go out and buy a whole new expensive wardrobe, but wear something on the dressier side and leave the sweatpants at home.
4. Be Prepared.
Be sure to bring plenty of business cards, but only give them to people who seem genuinely interested in getting to know you. Brochures and other printed material can also be effective to have at networking events. Also, have an elevator speech prepared; having a 10-15 second introduction about you and your business is important especially if you have a lot of people to talk to.
5. Ask Questions and Listen.
You don't have to go on and on about yourself to find new customers. Instead, ask new people questions about themselves and their business, then listen intently on the answers they give. Find points of commonality that you can bring to the conversation.
6. Sit with People You Don't Know
Many networking events involve walking around and talking with people. However, some events will have a sit-down portion, maybe with some sort of presentation. For this, be sure to sit next to people you don't know. This will allow you to widen your network. If you only sit with those you know, you won't be able to meet potential clients.
7. Talk with People Who are Standing Alone.
People attend networking events to meet others. If you see someone standing alone, that is the perfect opportunity to approach them and strike up a conversation. Some people are shy, so taking that first step to go introduce yourself to them will help ease their nerves about talking to new people. If you know others at the event, be sure to introduce your new friend to them as well.
8. Politely Move On.
Don't spend all your time talking to the same person, especially if you already know them. Gather the information you need, exchange business cards if necessary and move on to the next person. Be polite and say you would like to meet some other people, but it was a pleasure speaking to them.
9. Give to Get.
Go in with a mind set of what you can do for others rather than what they can do for you. Perhaps you know someone who could use your prospects services. If so, you can make a referral.
10. Follow Up.
If you make a good connection with someone, be sure to follow up with them after the event. Send them a note saying how much you enjoyed meeting them. If appropriate, you could even send them an article or some other type of information that may be beneficial to them. Do not add them to your mailing list however unless you get their permission.
Networking is a process that takes time. You can't go to one event and expect to gain 20 new clients in one night. Take the time to build relationships with those people who interest you. People in the same industry as you could be a great referral source because their customers might also be your type of customers. Be proactive and invite someone to a one-to-one meeting so you can get to know them better. Remember that most business professionals are looking to make new connections everyday, so don't be afraid to take charge and introduce yourself.
The Lake of the Ozarks is home to many thriving businesses as well as networking groups. If you are a new business at the Lake or are looking to relocate to the Lake, there are plenty of ways for you to get involved and get your name out there. For more information on the Lake area, stop by Your Lake Vacation across from the Outlet Mall next to Vista Grande in Osage Beach.
For more information please call us toll free at 1-877-284-0267!!
YourLakeVacation.com4571 Osage Beach Pkwy, Suite A
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Local - 573-365-3367
Fax - 573-365-5076
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