The Keys To Networking

THE KEYS TO NETWORKING.

Networking can be really frustrating for small business owners because of the time, energy, and a certain amount of extroversion if you’re meeting people in person. But networking is very important for connecting with people and building a peer group to help you work through business decisions, learn about new trends in your field, and promote each other’s work.

There are different marketing strategies that work for different people but in this article I will go through the main and most resourceful strategies to broaden your network. People are very sceptical when you sell to them especially when they are your COLD AUDIENCE. Your cold audience are those people who have never heard of you before, even if you want to sell a pair of socks, they won't purchase it. The best way to get the hearts of your Cold audience is to have the secret keys to marketing your product.

Keys to Networking:

1. Have and know your Networking Goals:

   The goal of networking is not to get a job. The goal is to build your network. So the next time you go to a networking event, do not go with the expectation of finding someone who can or wants to hire you. That will set you up for failure and you’ll be less likely to go to another networking event. Remember: the goal of networking is to build your network. So if you go to an event, make your goal more specific: “I want to talk to 10 people who can give me insights into my chosen career.” Or: “I want to collect 10 referrals for people who are not at this event.” Those are objectives and outcomes that are entirely in your control, and will thus be more achievable. In the process of pursuing those objectives, you will get a chance to speak about your career objectives and highlight your accomplishments.

2. Know Your Networking Style:

   Does meeting new people give you a boost of energy? Congratulations, extrovert! You’re an ideal candidate for in-person networking. Do you feel drained after a big meeting or crowded event? Welcome, introvert! You’ll probably excel at networking online. These are generalizations, of course, and you don’t need to stick to only one approach. When you’re new to networking, though, it’s easier to start if you’re comfortable. You can always branch out later as your skills and confidence grow. Here are some of your options.

3. Know Your Networking Budget:

   Once you’ve found options that feel comfortable and fit your goals, focus on the ones that fit your budget and schedule.
   

   If you’re an an extrovert with a new digital business to launch, trade shows and big events could be well worth the investment of several days and a few thousand dollars in registration, travel, and lodging costs, quite a task right. If attending a big conference isn’t doable, present your gregarious self to local groups and to media outlets as an expert they can contact for quotes and interviews on topics in your field. My fellow introverts may be thinking we’ve got the sweetest deal because most of our preferred networking options are so inexpensive: a LinkedIn Premium membership, local business group dues, and national professional groups. It's kind of easier but you must always be online to network and meet more people.

4. Know Your Networking Etiquette: Once you’ve found options that feel comfortable and fit your goals, focus on the ones that fit your budget and schedule. Offer a good product or service and treat your connections the way you’d like them to treat you. Please and Thank You Go a Long Way respect your connections’ time when you make a request or issue an invitation, and don’t take it personally if they’re too busy to engage. Always thank people who share their expertise, offer their advice, or send you referrals. This is a very important aspect in Networking. NETWORK SPICE…

Be the Connection You Want to See

When you have information you think your connections can use, share it with them. Do you have a client project you need to hand off? Refer it to someone in your network. Did one of your peers earn an award? Give them a shout out on social media. When you get a boost from someone in your network, give them credit for the assist. This will really go a long way.

Do well to follow me on all my Social Media Networks Benjamin Okocha-innocent - Student Brand Ambassador - OrderEat | LinkedIn Experienced Managing Director with a demonstrated history of working in the oil & energy industry. Skilled in… linkedin.com

instagram.com/the_alphaoflagos snapchat.com/add/benjamin_okocha