5 Effective Networking Strategies for Smart People

Networking is a socioeconomic activity by which people meet to create, discuss or act upon business opportunities/relationships. It is sharing information and seeking potential partners for ventures. Business activities thrive on networking- building, maintaining and increasing a steady chain of demand and supply through people

Business Networking is establishing a mutually beneficial relationship with other business people-existing and potential clients. The primary purpose of networking is to tell others about your business and hopefully add them to your clientele.

The following strategies will help you achieve your business goals in a smarter and faster way:

• Have a goal. Set a goal for what you expect from any meeting you attend. Your goal could be to discover industry trends, new prospects or connect with peers outside your circle. Having a goal in mind before you walk into an event will keep you focused.

You could also set a goal to meet at least three new people at any event (conference, training, luncheon or dinner) you attend. This means that you’ll make a move towards newcomers instead of gravitating towards familiar faces as usual.

• Try new groups regularly. Determine what business organization(s) is your best fit based on your goals. It could be a professional body, a civic organization, a social group or a non-governmental association. Once you decide, make it a point to interact with these associations regularly and leverage on the connections you make.

• Don’t rush to sit at an event or sit by people you know. Instead, take advantage of the valuable networking time to meet new people. You may be in that seat staring into space or browsing through your phone for hours, so don’t be in a hurry to limit yourself by sitting with your friends. It may be more fun to socialize with faces you’re familiar with but remember that you have a goal in mind. Use your time wisely and get value for your money.

• Be pitch ready. You’ve probably heard of the term elevator pitch. It is a synopsis; a brief persuasive speech that tells all about your unique selling point and the value you have to offer. The fact is, networking takes so many forms and sometimes you might have just a minute to make a great sales pitch and leave a positively memorable impression. Have your card and/or contact number ready to be exchanged afterwards.

• Be willing to give. Networking is a two-way street. Don’t expect new contacts to shower you with referrals and business if you are not equally generous. Always share information or leads that might benefit them. Provide value without asking for anything in return.  That’s how to get people’s attention. In turn, they’ll also try to help you.

The trick with networking is being proactive. This means doing something about it instead of just talking about it. Make a commitment to walk the talk and in due time, you’ll get the desired results. Cheers!!!