Business networking involves making connections not only with customers, but also with other individuals who might refer business to you. It also involves connecting with people who provide information or training, which is also an excellent way of locating reputable vendors to hire for your own business. Want to make your business networking more effective? Check out these tips!
(1) Attend business networking events
The first step in successful networking is always knowing where to go to make connections. While almost every activity or event can serve as a networking opportunity, small business owners can benefit from attending local business events.
Don’t know where to start? ShangHai, Malaysia’s most influential business media platform, provides various opportunities for business networking by organizing different events.
(2) Choose a goal
It is hard to get what you want to achieve if you don’t start with a clear agenda. Before attending any networking event, determine what your goals are. For example, you want to make new connections or just to learn about the latest updates in your industry.
(3) Get social even in off-hours
Off-clock doesn’t mean it’s time to stop networking. If you want to expand your reach, try to chat with people at your private club or class. You can even make business connections at your child’s school activities and sports events, as parents are typically looking for something to chat besides what is happening on the field.
(4) Know your value
It is not enough to provide your clients with a great product or service. If you can’t present what you are doing, then you can’t hope to convey that information at networking events. Take your time to generate an elevator pitch that conveys what you do, whom you do it, and why customers should choose you over your competition. You will find it easier for you to deliver the information during the networking events.
(5) Identify conversational icebreakers
If you are naturally introverted, having success in networking can be a challenge. If you want to overcome initial awkwardness and make a good first impression, you may open the talk with a compliment. Also, asking a question gives contacts the chance to talk about themselves. Ask how they got into the field or what they think of a recent development affecting your industry.
You are always free to take a breather if you get overwhelmed. Go to the restroom, take a coffee, or take a walk. You can return to the room after feeling refreshed and ready to meet new people.
Conclusion
Survey shows that 78% of startups say networking is vital to their entrepreneurial endeavors. If you aren’t taking time to meet and interact with others in your field, you’re likely to miss out on valuable opportunities to meet new partnerships, generate referrals, and even land clients and positions. Need help on business networking? Contact us now