Networking is truly one of the most important keys to business success. You’ve probably heard the old adage “It’s not what you know – it’s who you know!” Of course, this isn’t entirely true. However, networking is still very important – whether you’re looking to expand your business, find a better job, or simply connect with a community of like-minded individuals, thought leaders, and business owners.
In this guide, we’ll take a quick look at a few useful top networking practices. Read on, and become a more effective networker today!
- Start With A Goal In Mind!
This is the single most important tip on this page. You should go into any networking opportunity with a goal in mind – because this will help guide your behavior and your conversations. You must have a clear goal for what you’re trying to accomplish by networking.
Are you trying to connect with a new supplier for your business? Find a mentor who can help you grow as an employee? Seek new job opportunities? Ask yourself what you want to get out of networking – and you’ll be much more effective!
- Keep Those Business Cards Ready!
Yes, they’re old-fashioned. But there’s a reason that business cards are still popular in this modern world of digital technology. They’re tactile, they’re easy to give away, and help potential business connections remember you. So keep your business cards ready, and hand one over to anyone who expresses interest!
Related: How to Make Your Business Cards Stand Out
- Be Kind, Be Friendly, And Be Open
Networking is all about your attitude. Don’t go in with high expectations, and never go into a networking event with a bad attitude. Be kind to everyone you meet, be friendly, and be open to new experiences and new ideas. You never know what you’re going to get – so just accept things as they happen, and keep a positive attitude!
- Don’t Be Afraid Of Hearing “No!”
If you are going to succeed at networking, you’ll need to develop a thick skin. You may encounter people who don’t want to talk to you, or who are impolite, or just don’t want to hear what you have to say.
Don’t be afraid of “no”. Every “no” that you hear is just another step towards an eventual “yes” when you connect with the right people. Let negativity bounce off of you – and don’t let it affect your attitude or goals.
- Don’t Let Those Leads Go Cold!
Did you find a potential lead? Nice job! But don’t let them forget about you – or all of your hard work will go unnoticed. If you’ve made a business connection, do your best to follow up as soon as you can, and keep that connection warm.
For example, after meeting a potential client at a marketing conference, you could send an email a few days later, and remind them about who you are, how they met you, and what you talked about! Then, you can develop a relationship naturally.
However you choose to do it – whether it’s a phone call, text message, email, or even a LinkedIn connection – make sure that you follow-up with as many networking connections as you can.
Related: Why Hand-Written Notes Strengthen Client Relationships
Follow These Tips To Become Better At Networking – Instantly!
Networking isn’t easy. But with these tips from Double A Paper, you’ll be able to raise your networking skills quickly, and become more effective in both business situations, and networking events. So think about what you’ve learned, and how you can apply it to your day-to-day life!