Let’s be honest, networking events are not really known for being people’s favourite activity. However, networking is essential in achieving career and business growth. These days, business networking is less about puffing out your chest and selling yourself, but is more about building genuine relationships with like-minded business people for the benefits of both your businesses. But why exactly do you need business networking?
(1) Opportunities
The most obvious benefit of business networking is to get you more business. When a large group of hungry business people get together, opportunities come knocking. Business networking is all about supporting each other through referrals and recommendations. The referrals that you get from networking are usually high quality and qualified leads. Following up and connecting with these referrals can result in new clients, especially if you are running a B2B business.
(2) Connections
Business networking gives you a platform to build connections with other like-minded business people. Make new contacts and regularly engage with existing ones to build and develop trust. The deeper you have a relationship with someone, the more willing they are to recommend you to their network, which means your relationship will go from strength to strength, leading to greater prospects for your business.
(3) Profile
Business networking is all about being visible and getting noticed, therefore it’s essential for career building. Attending networking events gets your face out in the professional world.
But, getting known is only one of the parts, it is more important to bring value to the conversations you have at the event. Try to only offer in-depth information and tips to people that need it. This could build your reputation as an expert in your field, leading to more referrals and business opportunities.
(4) Knowledges
There are lots of people at networking events, who all have differing levels of experience in their respective fields. The wealth of information that you can tap into is a wonderful source of new ideas and perspectives for your business. Also, when networking with people in your field, you will become aware of new trends and the latest industry developments. The digital world advances rapidly, therefore business networking puts your business at the forefront of competition.
(5) Confidence
When you first start attending networking events, you may find it difficult striking up a conversation with a complete stranger. But by getting out of your comfort zone and meeting new people, you will build confidence and key social skills that help to build your business in the long run. This is really important as your career and business growth relies on you being able to speak confidently and make connections.
Conclusion
There’s many different ways networking can help your business grow. If you don’t know how build your network, ShangHai is the best place to start.
ShangHai, Malaysia’s most influential business platform, held different business networking events including A Call of The Elites, CEO Meet and Greet, and ShangHai Businesswomen Social Club (SBSC), providing a platform for entrepreneurs to gather around and build their business network. Get in touch with us to start your business networking journey.