Yes, You NEED to Network!

 Is this you? Stuck in your office with contracts? Most business owners and professionals don’t take the time to get out and network. What they don’t realize is that networking is essential for every business, no matter your industry. It can lead to an increase in sales and brand awareness. Yes, you need to get out and network for your business. How? Read on to find out!

People do business with who they know, like, and trust.  This comes over time but it all starts with networking. When networking, ask open-ended questions to get to know the person and to find common interests. Listen to their needs and as they answer your question. Respond with knowledge to their needs and extend the conversation. Not only are you starting a relationship but also building brand awareness. It all start with networking. Networking establishes the relationship.  

By establishing and building the relationship, you are gaining trust. This is the most critical aspect of a relationship. This may take time but is well worth the effort. You have gained a long-term client, not a one-time customer. This is why networking is important in any business. It’s creating a relationship with your client for the present and the future.

Photo: Copyright (c) 123RF Stock Photos

Top Posts of 2010

Here are some of my favorite posts from this year. Hope you enjoy reading them as much as I did writing them!

Business Development
Where Do I Network?
3 More Ways to Get More Business at Networking Events
Business Networking No-No’s
Follow Up!

Marketing
Visibility is Key
Do It Yourself Marketing Ideas
Improving Your Business Image

Just for Fun
Text Surprise
An Interesting Journey of Reinvention
Happiness Happens

3 Tips on How To Break the Ice

It’s happened to you at least once in your business lifetime. You’re at the company picnic, at a networking event, or at your industry’s national convention surrounded by people you don’t know. All around you there are streams of conversation that sound inviting. Yet, you’re tongue-tied and can’t seem to speak. Sound familiar? 

Breaking the ice and entering into a conversation can seem daunting or intimidating. This is especially true if you’re shy or an introvert. Here are a few ways to break the ice at networking events, company meetings, or at that big industry trade show. 

1. Ask Open-Ended Questions
Don’t ask any question. Ask an open-ended question that allows the person to open up and talk about themselves. The keys are to pick up any common interests to extend the conversation and learn more about that person. This helps with relationship-building.

2. Bring A Friend
I use this one quite often. When in doubt about the networking event, I bring someone along with me. More than likely, they know someone at the event and I can be introduced. It’s always great to expand your circle of influence.

3.  Get An Introduction
If you see someone you would like to meet at the event, ask someone you know for an introduction. This allows you to be comfortable in the “circle” and ask questions. Having a mutual acquaintance gives you some credibility with the person you would like to meet. 

Bonus Tip: Find the Right Opening At the Right Time
The key to finding the right opening is to listen around you. If you know you can solve a problem that someone has, don’t be afraid to jump in and introduce yourself. The key is to jumping in at the right time (just like jump rope). 

Do you have any ideas on how to break the ice? Please post and share!