Business Networking for Entrepreneurs: 10 Tips for Success

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Networking done right takes time and practice for most people.  When I started out, I was a little nervous and would fall all over myself when asked that dreaded deer-in-headlights question, “What do you do?”

Over the years I’ve learned to answer – and ask – that question with more elegance and ease.

As a strategy for growing my business, I have gotten great results from personal networking.  I’ve gained clients, colleagues and friends through my efforts, and I truly enjoy it.

But for some, it’s a bit of a struggle and feels downright uncomfortable.  Here are some tips that will help make the best use of your efforts, and eventually produce the results you want – clients, resources and referrals.

1. You are not there to sell anything.  Let go of this false notion. You are there to start and build relationships.  The customers will follow.

2. Remembering names – there are lots of techniques, but if all else fails, just simply say, “Excuse me, please remind me of your name again.”  It sounds SO much better than “I forgot your name.”

3. Another trick I learned from one of my mentors is to introduce yourself to someone you don’t know by saying, ‘Hi, I don’t think we’ve met yet.  My name is _______.”  Please don’t bother with your last name just yet.  If there’s a connection, you’ll exchange cards and they will have all your info.  I personally think it’s a waste of time in networking situations saying your last name.  Make it easier for people to remember you by just giving your first name.

4. Be curious.  In addition to finding out what people do, ask them an assortment of questions like:
a. How did you get started?
b. What do you like most about what you do?
c. Who is one of your mentors?
d. What do you like about this group?
e. How do you deal with your email inbox?
f. Where’s the best place to get pizza around here?

5. Offer assistance and resources when appropriate.

6. When someone offers help, say yes and thank them.  One of the biggest challenges we seem to have is being able to receive graciously.

7. If someone asks you, what do you need? – don’t say, “nothing”.  Oh, how disappointing!  People usually want to help and will wrack their brains trying to figure out a way to contribute to you.

8. Follow up appropriately. Make a phone call. Or send an email.  Set aside time in your schedule to do your follow up activities – usually within 24 to 48 hours after the event.  Keep a record of who you contact, and appropriate next steps.

9. Keep it personable; relax and be yourself.  Starting out can be a bit unnerving and many new entrepreneurs approach networking with the misperception that it’s serious and ‘sales-y’.

10. Make sure you’re in the right place.  Are you schmoozing with your target market?  Or maybe the intent is to foster relationships with peers and colleagues.  You never know when they may need to refer business to you.

Tagged as: business networking