Networking is crucial for an entrepreneur, but it can often be painful. Not everyone is a natural when it comes to meeting new people, not to mention building lasting relationships. It can be a difficult thing to do, but as an entrepreneur, you must push yourself to accomplish this ultra-important task. Not only does it build awareness of your current project but it sets you into the fabric of the network, and that could bring you more value than you ever could have anticipated.
Make lasting connections
When you’re at a networking event, it’s important to remember that you’re not just there to collect business cards. Make real connections with your new contacts. Be open to sharing yourself beyond your business persona. Bring the conversation full circle by being inquisitive. Asking questions shows that you’re not only self-promoting; instead you are interested in what they have to say, leaving a positive impression.
Follow-up
Following up with the people you meet is a sure-fire way to make yourself memorable. Even if they didn’t feel that instant connection, they will appreciate that you cared enough about them and what they had to offer. Express how nice it was to meet them and talk about topics you may have discussed with them in your initial meeting.
Stay current
Reconnect with the people you met in person via social media. Social media can be a great way to bring your interaction to the next level. Push out information in regular intervals that remind others that you are a valuable link to the industry. Reach out, comment and congratulate others on their content. Let them know that you are following them and they will see you as someone to follow as well.
Be useful / Help others
Take an active role in helping others in your network. Make sure that they know that you are someone they can reach out to. Offer advice, and make introductions for others. Become a staple at grand openings and events and help out where you can. While helping others may not always have the desired immediate return, it pays off in the long run.
Make lasting connections
When you’re at a networking event, it’s important to remember that you’re not just there to collect business cards. Make real connections with your new contacts. Be open to sharing yourself beyond your business persona. Bring the conversation full circle by being inquisitive. Asking questions shows that you’re not only self-promoting; instead you are interested in what they have to say, leaving a positive impression.
Follow-up
Following up with the people you meet is a sure-fire way to make yourself memorable. Even if they didn’t feel that instant connection, they will appreciate that you cared enough about them and what they had to offer. Express how nice it was to meet them and talk about topics you may have discussed with them in your initial meeting.
Stay current
Reconnect with the people you met in person via social media. Social media can be a great way to bring your interaction to the next level. Push out information in regular intervals that remind others that you are a valuable link to the industry. Reach out, comment and congratulate others on their content. Let them know that you are following them and they will see you as someone to follow as well.
Be useful / Help others
Take an active role in helping others in your network. Make sure that they know that you are someone they can reach out to. Offer advice, and make introductions for others. Become a staple at grand openings and events and help out where you can. While helping others may not always have the desired immediate return, it pays off in the long run.
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