Networking Like a Pro: 4 Key Networking Strategies
If you joined the Chamber to meet new people, grow your network, and get more customers, you’re on the right track. The Chamber offers several opportunities to build important relationships, but to be successful you need a plan. We understand that networking like a pro doesn’t always come naturally, so we’re here to help with a 4 part blog series where you’ll learn:
4 Key Networking Strategies
Benefits of Face to Face Networking
How to Work a Room
Nurturing Your Network
Let’s dive in with 4 Key Networking Strategies.
1. Know who you’re looking for
When you attend a networking event, you need to think about who you want to meet. Are you looking for people in your target market? Do you need to find someone that offers a service you need? Maybe you’re looking for a mentor or industry peer. A strong network spans a variety of industries and consists of mutually beneficial relationships. By having a goal in mind, you’ll feel more confident about striking up conversations.
Did you know you can see who’s on the guest list for Chamber events? Simply login to your member account, select the event you’re interested in, and click on the “Who’s Going” tab. This is a great way to prepare ahead of time. Bonus tip: reach out to someone you’re interested in meeting and shoot them a message letting them know you’re looking forward to seeing them there!
2. Know your elevator pitch
When you meet someone at an event, you may only get a few minutes with them, so make them count. You need to be able to quickly and clearly explain what you do, why you do it and who you serve. This is called your “elevator pitch” and should be just a few short sentences. The person you’re talking to may not need your business services right now, but they’ll be able to easily remember what you do if they mention you to someone else. Check out 6 Steps to Writing a Powerful Elevator Pitch by The Balance Small Business.
3. Have something to offer
It’s easy to get hung up on your own needs when walking into a networking setting. But remember that the strongest relationships you’ll build are mutually beneficial. Make sure you listen - don’t just pitch. Have an open mind and be willing to help someone else. Maybe you know a plumber that can help the guy who said his sink is leaking. Or maybe you’re willing to sit down over coffee and chat with a new business owner that’s feeling overwhelmed. Most of the time, the connections you make while networking don’t immediately translate into dollars. Instead, they build a foundation for quality leads and friendships that are invaluable in the long run.
4. Nurture your network
Like any relationship, professional connections need to be maintained to remain effective. Set reminders to check in with someone from your network each week. Having lunch with them is nice, but if you’re short on time, simply taking 5 minutes out of your day to send them an email or forward an article you think they’d enjoy is just as effective.
Ready to start building your network? Join us for our first Business Before Hours and enjoy breakfast and networking at The Big Biscuit at 7:30 am on Wednesday, February 23. Click here to register.
According to Blue Springs Chamber member & ghostwriter Saralee Rhoads, “Networking is basic to business growth, and you won’t find a better place to network than Chamber events.” Check out her post on “Lessons Learned: Networking” for more networking advice.
Next week we’ll continue our Networking Like a Pro series by discussing the Benefits of Face to Face Networking.
