Effective Networking

 3 Secrets of Effective Networking

One of the most powerful business-building tools available to business owners and professionals is networking. Yet, many people admit the results they get from their networking efforts are less than desirable.

Networking, like any other skill, can be learned. With patience, practice and an awareness of some simple networking secrets, you can create a powerful network of people from which you can draw clients, referrals, ideas, information and resources. 

 

Identify Your Ideal Client
Without a clear understanding of your ideal client; your networking efforts will not be focused or effective. To identify your ideal client, consider these factors: business or consumer, industry, business size and type, income, gender, values, hobbies, interests and primary sources for information. Gain even more clarity by considering the type of person with whom you relate best and the conditions that need to be present in order for you to do your best work.

 

Create a Memorable Introduction
Attend any networking event and you can expect to be asked the question, “So, what do you do?” How you respond is critical to your networking success. Say too little and your listener won’t understand; say too much and you confuse; stumble over your words and you lose credibility. Ideally, your introduction should tell a brief story about who you are and the interesting angle you bring to the world. It should also invite the listener to ask for more details. The more clearly, concisely and confidently you can share your information, the more compelling your message will be.

Be Interested, Not Interesting
As the saying goes, we were given two ears and one mouth so that we would listen twice as much as we talk. Nowhere is this old adage more relevant than when networking. Consider this: the primary objective of networking should be to gain an understanding of others’ concerns and challenges. The way to do this is by asking questions. The best networking questions allow the conversation to stay positive and productive and, at the same time, help you learn a great deal about the person and how they think.