Networking Its Important
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Networking opportunities are everywhere. Don't let them pass you
by.
1. Recognize that there is more to networking than greeting
people. Develop a step-by-step plan for how you'll build
relationships and how you can effectively tell your story. Don't
forget your 30 second commercial to tell your story.
2. Zero in on specific groups of people. Who are the ideal
prospects for your business? Do they live nearby? What activities
do they participate in? Try networking groups meetings. For those
of us in lease purchasing we network with real estate agents,
accountants, financial planners, and a multitude of others.
3. Determine where you'll be most likely to find your ideal
prospects. Do they belong to specific organizations or
associations? Do they frequent particular events, performances or
recreational facilities? Again, for those of us in lease
purchasing, investors, buyers and sellers are just the
beginning.
4. Identify organizations, events, professional groups and
social clubs whose members meet your profile characteristics, and
get involved. Get to know people, and let them know what you do.
Volunteer for committees, attend conferences, and maximize
opportunities that might spin off from the formal sessions. For
those of you in lease purchasing, and even other businesses, become
an expert. Give seminars, speeches, write articles. Become involved
and get your name out there.
5. Work on your ability to make small talk. Have some prepared
topics in mindcurrent events, sports, vacation plans. And be sure
to ask open-ended questions of the other person like "What is it
you enjoy most about your work, or where you live or your free
time?" Remember, too, that having a good conversation depends
greatly on being an active, courteous listener. Again, your thirty
second commercial is a must. And let's emphasize again being a good
and courteous listener.
6. Explore organizations dedicated to business networking.
Chambers of commerce, tenant associations and networking clubs
offer opportunities for you to meet and greet. Look for the groups
in your area. Many times your local paper has a certain day of the
week that lists all of these types of meetings. If you don't see
it, call your paper and ask about it.
7. Look for partners. Specifically, look for other businesses
that complement what you do and might be a good source of
referrals. Again, those of us in lease purchasing have it easy. We
have a ton of people to work with. For those of you in other
businesses, think of who would complement your business. If you are
a travel agent, how about hotels, spas; a flower shop, what about
bridal shops, catering services, party planners... you get the
idea.
8. Don't look at networking as a sales opportunity. Instead,
look at it as a reconnaissance missiona chance for you to learn
something and enjoy the scenery. There is a proper time and place
for sales calls. This is a very important point. Read it over and
over again. Networking is not sales.
9. Make a habit of being patient, polite and friendly to people,
whether or not you're in an "orchestrated" setting. This is just
good business behavior. If you are going to run a business, at
least a successful one, these are just some of the characteristics
and behavior you will need to employ.
10. Finally, do something constructive with the names and
information you've gathered. Stay in touch with the most meaningful
contacts. Again, those of us in lease purchasing know the
importance of following up and have numerous ways to do so. For
those of you in other types of business, develop a few types of
follow-up methods; such as phone, fax, newsletter, brochure, card
and letter.
Referrals, introductions and contacts that simply come by chance
are like gifts. Be sure to thank anyone who helps you network, and
when appropriate pay a nice referral fee. Your ability to be seen
as a giver rather than a taker will spread the word that you are
someone with whom people want to do business.
Copyright 2001 DeFiore Enterprises
About the Author
Interested in having your own successful, home based creative
real estate investing business? Chuck and Sue have been helping
folks start successful home based businesses for over 19 years, and
we can help you too! To see how, visit http://www.homebusinesssolutions.com
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Article Published/Sorted/Amended on Scopulus 2006-08-01 23:31:42 in Personal Articles
