Platinum Author
In today's economic climate, small business owners are turning to some basics of marketing that don't cost much - just your time and your good sense, and a big dose of imagination. Networking is one of those basics that we simply cannot afford to ignore.
The key to successful networking is to stand out in the crowd and to be remembered. I met a lady at a conference in Los Angeles this year. I still remember her from a small dinner gathering that we attended together. Why do I remember her and hardly anyone else? Because she handed me something very unusual - a glossy colorful brochure that is bigger than a business card and smaller than a flyer. I don't know what you call it, but I still have it and it was very impressive. There was a ton of information on that piece that resembles a folding postcard. I hung onto to it because it is unique. How are you standing out in the crowd? How are you appearing unique?
Networking can be defined as finding people with whom you can make contact in order to establish a relationship that will ultimately lead to doing business. Notice there is a progression here. You don't just show up to a networking event planning to close a sale or do business. First, you make contact...then you establish a relationship...and eventually you hope to do business. People do business with those they know, like and trust; and that doesn't happen in one evening at a networking event. But it all starts with a good plan.
Here are a few things to think about and 4 great tips to get you started and make your networking successful:
- Discover what networking opportunities are available to you.
- Then develop a plan and decide which ones will be right for you. Choose wisely because you are spending one of your most valuable resources - your time! Go to the events that will have the most people who are a good fit to be your customer. For example, if you sell alarm systems or pest control, don't attend your local get-together of people who rent apartments or condos, no matter how upscale. They don't own their home, and they don't buy these services; the homeowners or landlords do.
- Set an agenda for yourself - how many people do you want to meet? It doesn't have to be a huge number of people to be effective. Remember that every person knows between 150-250 people well enough to introduce them to you.
- Arrive early - Even offer to work the registration desk if there is one. You'll gather a lot of "intelligence" at that desk. Then, later you'll have time to follow up certain people that you have targeted.
Networking is an art and a skill and can be learned. Visit Make Referrals Work to learn more and to receive a gift of high-quality video training at no cost.
About this Author
Jeanne Kolenda is a telecommunications consultant and a small business marketing coach. Log on to http://www.businesstrainingteam.com and download a free eBook entitled Local Business Marketing On the Internet. To contact Jeanne, email Jeanne@businesstrainingteam.com.
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