subject: Networking Event tips [print this page] In the state of the current economy networking events have seen an increase in attendance. Small businesses are looking for consistent referral sources as well as a support group for one another to lean on to get through the downturn of our economy.
Aside from the obvious benefits of networking and marketing your company, there are positives for the individual business owner. For one thing it gets you out of your office or home and out talking to people about your company, giving your company some exposure with a face to it. The connections made with a face to face occurrence will be much stronger than an email introduction.
Also, networking groups really give you some ground floor information as to what's going on around your community. Various industries are represented and their successes and challenges are shared in presentations and conversations.
Lately I've been on an Orange County networking tour, visiting groups in the area. Here are a few tips that I'd like to share that have worked well for me:
Prepare for the event: Know your elevator pitch inside and out, you will be asked a dozen times what do you do, so practice, practice, practice. You don't want to stutter through it, the confidence you exude will go a long way
This may sound elementary but bring your business cards and don't be shy about giving them out. I still run into the person that has "run out of cards" or "forgot them" which doesn't present well in a world of veteran networkers.
Make sure you're registered for the event or contact the president of the group to let them know you're attending and get some info on the format of the event so you know what to expect.
At the event Be open and receptive, by doing so I've found that people naturally come up to you and begin to ask what you do.
Know your targets. For me some of my personal targets are CPAs, attorneys and business brokers. They prove to be a great resource of info for what I do as well as great referral sources.
After the event Follow up with those you made great connections with quickly.
A possible great referral source or someone you could refer business too. (don't underestimate good ol Karma)
A great resource for what you do
Someone that you know would be a great connection with a colleague or friend of yours.
Someone that you just naturally connected with and have a few things in common, whether it's business related or not.
The connections you make can be quite long lasting so be positive, put out a good energy, present well and you should be able to leave the event feeling productive and satisfied.
