Businesses Often Forget These Networking Reminders - Have You?
- Written by News Company
When it comes to networking and business, the two go hand in hand. However, some professionals find it tough simply approaching a stranger and talking to them. It might be weird in the street, but there are plenty of places you can network where it isn’t going to be weird. Conferences, trade shows, conventions, and similar events are all fantastic networking events. Here, you are able to introduce yourself and have relevant conversations that could help you somehow in business. Business relationships are crucial, and it helps to know as many people as possible from different industries and sectors.
Read on for the business networking reminders that people often forget:
Networking Isn’t Dishonest - It’s About Helping
Networking isn’t dishonest, so if you’re in that mindset it’s important to change it. It’s simply about learning and helping. You will learn about another companies product, service, industry, profession, market segment, and niche and they will learn about yours.
Being sincere, honest, and open will help you to figure out whether you are able to help one another. That’s true networking. Helping and learning should be your goal. You might have a great way of getting people over to you - like a great looking stand, or even cupcakes. Roll up banner stands are great as they can attract people at an event, but don’t automatically go for the hard sell. More on this below.Not Everybody Will Need Your Product/Service
You shouldn’t be attempting to convince people that they need what you have to offer. It’s pushy and people won’t like it. People at networking events will be focused on selling their own product/service, for one. See if you can help them by asking great questions and getting into a genuine conversation with them instead.
It still helps to have varied contacts even if you can’t immediately help them, so don’t snub those who you don’t feel you can help right away.Have Some Great Questions Ready
Ask about the event, about the person, about the company, experiences, objectives, and more.
Show genuine interest and try to build a connection with a person. Practice your listening skills and really try to understand what a person is telling you. Sometimes, people don’t always say what they mean.
Make sure your conversations are kept short and sweet, and know when you’re overstaying your welcome. Have a good line that you can use to leave a conversation politely so you can speak to another person. Exchange business cards, and plan to follow up if you felt a connection with the person you were speaking with.
If it makes sense and you have a good reason, then make a plan to follow up with the person.
Remember; nurturing important relationships is essential, or they won’t stay important. It must be a mutually beneficial relationship, otherwise, it won’t be a great relationship and you’ll struggle to keep it afloat. Ask if it makes sense for you both to stay in touch and go from there.