How to Network and Actually Get Something Out of It

So often small business owner's will attend a "networking event" in hopes of expanding their so called network. Instead they simply pass out business cards that end up in the trash or in a pile with all of the other business cards gathered at any given event. So what can you do to legitimately build a network that you can utilize in the future? The key is in the relationship and there are a few ways to build relationships through networking events.

1. Be Prepared - When you go to a networking event to meet people you don't know there is essentially one way to start a conversation, "What do you do?" I hate to break it to you, but they probably don't care what you do. They are at a networking event for the same reason you are, to get something out of it personally. So when you are asked what you do, be prepared to answer with how you provide value. That is really all they want to know, how can you provide value to them, and in return they may be able to provide value to you. Just don't explain each painstaking activity that you do at work or in your business, instead stick with what value you provide others.

2. How can you Help? - As previously mentioned, at the typical networking event everyone has come to find out how they can benefit personally, not how they can benefit others. If you break that mold and ask others how you can help them you will undoubtedly create a relationship with that person that will last beyond swapping business cards. Don't be afraid to give first. If you help others you are building a network even if you have not seen any benefit from it just yet.

3. Follow Up - So you get back from a networking event and have a stack of business cards. Within the next two or three days you need to follow up with the people that you want to keep connected with. A personal e-mail is alright, but a phone call is so much more memorable and more likely to result in some sort of relationship. Maybe you thought you could help someone that you met and you mentioned that to them and gave them your business card. How great would it be for them if you actually contacted them to start helping out? They will remember that forever and that is what you want in a network.

So focus on preparing a concise explanation of how you provide value to the world, determine how you can help those you meet, and then follow up shortly thereafter. If you do these three things you will surely grow your network in a way that may actually provide value to you in the future.

Adam Hoeksema here. I hope this article provided value to you and your small business. If so, make sure to visit http://www.theexecutiveplan.com and sign up for my RSS feed so you can automatically get my posts that will hopefully contribute to your small business success. Thanks!