How To Get Your "Net"Working!

What is Networking? Networking is farming, not hunting. In other words, you are not out there for the kill, but instead you are planting seeds for the future.

There are three R's of Networking that are essential for success. They are:

Resources - To effectively network, you want to be a resource for others. Share your contacts, answers, knowledge, and ideas with others that you meet.

Relationships - Networking is the process of building relationships and any successful business is made up of strong, trusting relationships.

Results - The quickest way to reach your goals is to help other people reach theirs. Therefore, you want to think and be results-oriented.

There are several key components of successful networking. Here are a few...

SMILE!
Have good eye contact.
Do your homework...know what the event is about beforehand.
Have a goal when you go to an event.
Have your 10- & 30-second commercial...use formula below.
Use the appropriate commercial for the occasion.
Firm Handshake. Extend your hand first to show you are interested.
ALWAYS wear your nametag on the right side.
Hold your drink in your left hand to leave your right hand free for handshaking.
ALWAYS HAVE YOUR BUSINESS CARDS!
Carry your cards in one pocket and put other's cards in another pocket.
Ask permission to give card...May I give you my card? I'd like to follow-up...
If action is to take place, write on your card for the person before handing it to them.
As you receive a card, write the date, occasion, and action on it so you remember them later.
As you collect business cards, use the corners. For example, fold the top left corner if the person asked you to call them, fold top right corner if they want to be added to your mailing list, etc.
For follow up purposes, especially for occasions where you collect many cards (trade shows), use a 1-5 scale of importance on follow-up potential. 1=cold 5= HOT! Be creative.
Ask open-ended questions and be attentive when they answer.
Give out information and be a resource to help others.
Shake hands when you are through with your conversation.
Have an exit plan with a buddy...have a prearranged rescue system.
Have a great time!

One fear is to attend a networking event and end up standing alone. Here is how you can avoid that:

Stand by the food table, bar, or registration table.
Act as if you are a host and people will come to you.
Watch your body language and posture. Be open and inviting.
If you see someone you know, ask them to introduce you to people they know.
Seek out people that are standing alone, they will appreciate your approach!
Approach groups of 3 or more or someone standing alone. It is tough to approach 2 people in an intimate or personal conversation.

Something that you want to do is stand out as a great networker. Here's how:

Have amazing follow-up. Do what you say you are going to do!
Don't just make things work for you, make things happen between others.
Give with no expectations in return.
Hand out business cards to everyone.

So where do you go to network and how to make your "net"work?

Don't expect business right away.
Get involved by joining a committee of the organization.
Make time to network.
Join groups that will help you reach goals.
Look in Yellow Pages under Associations and/or go to the internet.
Talk to others in your field and ask what they recommend.

By following the above guidelines and tips, you can grow your business and your circle of influence quickly and effectively. If you are shy, you are not alone. Imagine how good it would feel if someone approached you; then turn around and approach someone that you know would appreciate it.

Networking is a way to build the three R's...you can become a better resource, build stronger relationships, and get results for you and for the people that you meet.

Now go get your "NET"working!

(c) 2006, Kreamer Connect, Inc. Permission granted to reprint this article so long as the text and by-line are not changed and reprinted intact with all links made live.

Patty Kreamer, owner of Kreamer Connect, Inc., is a professional organizer, speaker, and author of ...But I Might Need It Someday! and The Power of Simplicity, now available at http://www.ByeByeClutter.com. If your business or organization is looking for a fun, dynamic, and effective speaker, you can email Patty at patty@ByeByeClutter.com or call her at 412-344-3252.