How to Make Connections – Use Your Networking Room to Boost Your Business

Walking into any networking meeting, the initial concern is those people who are in the room – who do you already know? Are there people here you’ve worked with before? Who could be interested in your services?

But hot on the heels of those thoughts should be your follow ups – who here could help others in my network? Who could I collaborate with? What kind of connections am I looking for here?

Because you’re not selling to these people in the room, you’re meeting individuals who can help you grow your business. That’s effective networking.

This is key, so I’ll say it again – don’t focus on selling to the people in the room

We’ve all met those people at networking – who stop listening when you tell them that you already have an accountant or social media support – they’re just trying to sell in the room, only interested in those sitting in front of them.

The best networkers, however, aren’t expecting you to sign up to their services; they’re giving you the opportunity to recognise people in your network they could help – people outside the networking room.

In this blog I’m going to give you some simple tips to ensure your networking meeting helps you reach further – these are networking strategies which will extend your network beyond the room. Think about how you can be present, proactive, and memorable – because that’s how to make connections which will help you grow your business.

Networking Tips: Helping You Reach Further

Be Present

Although this blog is focusing on networking strategies to create impact outside the room, it starts with the focus you show while you’re there in the meeting.

• Supporting Others
Support the leaders of the meeting by being courteous, on time, and prepared. Support the group, with your knowledge and expertise, or time and insights.    Being there for those in the room is      an important part of the building these business connections – it’s so much more than just buying and selling.

• Facilitating
Is there scope for you to do a little more in the room? Facilitating or chairing group conversations, introducing people, or making sure people are comfortable; what can you do which will help         your connections feel valued and supported.

Be Proactive

Being proactive is about going that step further than you might be expected to, following up efficiently and proving your value to those you are networking with – people who will remember it and remember you.

• On the Day
Make sure you’re listening, both in conversations and (of course) when others are doing their minute. Listening will enable you to learn more about your                connections and help them more effectively, as well as being clearer on who in your network they could help – ask questions, give useful feedback, and share        information relevant to their interests.

• Following the Meeting
Maybe you suggested a one to one, noted someone relevant to your connection or promised to follow up with someone outside the room – make sure you do it,    preferably quickly.

Be Memorable

In this room of people, you need to stand out – and a week after this meeting, you need to be remembered – how will you make this happen?

• Consistent branding and messaging
Having a clear and consistent brand has been proven to make it easier for people to remember you. This needs to include your message (how you tell people          who you are and how you can help), so that when your contact hears your ideal client’s tale of woe, your name – and branding – appears immediately in their head.

• Your Interactions
Whether it’s introducing yourself over coffee, presenting your minute, or reacting to icebreakers, these are opportunities to create a memory. Preparation will  help you create the right impression, and useful networking skills include using graphics or props to help create a longer impression. Use the time and opportunities you have to build a clear visual picture which will stay with people once you all leave the room.

• Be Clear Who You’re Looking For
This is all about finding you the right clients. You’re in this networking meeting to reach people who will support your business growth. I find it helpful to use the phrase “so who do you  know…“, to help those in the room identify the individuals I’m reaching out to. Try it, I’m sure it will work for you too.

Share your networking tips and how to make connections

We’d love to hear what you think about our networking strategies, and what you do to ensure effective networking. Do you have strategies which help those in your networking group identify your ideal clients?

If you’re looking to network with people who can help you build your business, check out our meetings to find the right one for you – we’d love to see you there.

Email barbara@yourbusinesdev.wpenginepowered.com or call me on 07504 946 585