Posts Tagged ‘Networking’

January 15th, 2012  Posted at   Networking
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As a new year kicks off, it is a perfect opportunity to set goals and focus on effective networking activities. The beginning of the year generates a freshness and newness which can spark any agenda. The main purpose is to stay consistent, committed and active. Show enthusiasm and establish accountability for your networking progression. Surround yourself with a supportive and proactive team or network. Evaluate, analyze and streamline a functional networking process. Step outside of your comfort zone and expand your diversity for more opportunities.

Resolutions are sometimes referred to as broken promises but this year can spark a totally new outlook. Be positive and specific about your resolutions. Be creative, open minded and flexible about the things you plan to achieve. Celebrate your small and big networking victories.

Listed below are helpful ways of developing, implementing worth while business and social advancement for networking.

The End Goal

As you set these resolutions, focus on the end result. See yourself crossing the finish line, wearing the gold metal or winning the big trophy. Imagine what your success will appear to be in the future. Answer these following questions: “What would my network look like in three to six months?”. “What type of organizations will I have a membership or affiliation with for business?”. “How will I add value and impact my sphere of influence?”. “Where will I be networking and meeting new people?”

Measurable Results

As you are creating and developing your resolutions, make sure they are scalable and measurable. Be able to track down results, evaluate problems and identify trouble spots in your networking. Consider creating a networking plan which is similar to a business plan. It identifies the reason for networking. It also displays ways of networking through professional groups, highlights the methods of networking and includes a workable budget. Be strategic and purposeful in your endeavors to support consistency and commitment. Reach out to mentors, trusted advisors for further help and guidance. (more…)

January 1st, 2012  Posted at   Networking
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You are always looking for ways to grow your business and have heard that networking can be a great way to do that. Just what is networking and how can it help you grow your business?

Networking is a way of establishing and maintaining relationships for receiving information and resources to help your business grow. The focus of networking should be to build rapport and long term relationships. Networking gives you access to a variety of information and resources.

Some think negatively of networking thinking the emphasis is on, “What can you do for me?” However, successful networking is about being genuine and authentic, building mutually beneficial relationships. It’s not just about what others can do for you, but what you can do for others. Consider these questions: “How can I be of help to others? What can I contribute? What kinds of resources do I have access to that I can share? What type of support can I offer?” Choose a group that will help you achieve your goals and is supportive of one another.

Motivate and educate your network

What are you doing to compel your network to refer you? Are you interested in what they do and do you refer them to your customers?

What have you done to educate your network about what your business? Have you kept them informed of new products and services? Have you given them succinct information about your business, such as business cards, brochures, web-based information, so they can also educate others they know?

Become known as a powerful resource for others; people will remember you and turn to you for suggestions, ideas, referrals, etc. Follow through quickly and efficiently on referrals you receive. When people give you referrals, your actions reflect on them. Respect that and your referrals will grow.

Authenticity and Networking

Following up with business contacts you meet at a networking group is great. However, be sure your follow-up is authentic.

Recently my husband and I attended a networking function and received a hand-written, hand-addressed piece of correspondence from a business owner who also attended. We were very impressed to have received a hand-written follow note from this business owner. As business owners ourselves, we know the impression that a hand-written note can have on the recipient. A hand-written note often has greater value than a follow-up by email. (more…)