Building and sustaining a network of professional contacts is essential to growing your business. New contacts can provide insights and opportunities not currently known to you or your company. Try these tips to help build your professional network.
Seize every opportunity to network
The Internet will not provide you with all the market information you need. Professional association meetings and networking events often provide access to unpublished information. Getting information early is critical to winning work. New information may be timely, providing you with an opportunity for early involvement in a project or business venture. Another reason to attend, even if the program is not relevant, is to meet people you need to know.
Be prepared
Arrive early to networking events. This is the best time to network. The room is quiet, and you have more time to talk with people. Wearing your nametag on your right shoulder makes it easy for the person shaking your hand to see your name. Make sure your business cards are readily accessible, you don’t want to be fumbling giving an indication you are un-prepared. Networking time is valuable, so skip the small talk and the appetizers. Say hello to people you regularly see and move on, the key is to meet new people.
Listen up
The pillar to sustaining a mutually beneficial relationship is to know what information is most important to the other person. While listening, think about professional contacts or market information you can provide that will help this person meet their goals. Help others to be successful and you will build an enduring relationship. Help someone today, and tomorrow, they may help you just when you need it.
Participate
Business associations provide opportunities to build your network of contacts and learn about future opportunities. They provide access to owners and to the companies that provide them with services. Get involved in organizations and build lasting relationships.
Follow up
Keep your promises. If you make a commitment to provide follow up information, do it quickly. This shows you are responsive and true to your word.
