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| EFFECTIVE NETWORKING FREE TRAINING RESOURCE |
| For most of us there is no avoiding the networking circuit: be that through business clubs, associations or conferences. Most people go to these events with one thing on their mind, “getting business for themselves. NOW!” Isn’t this just a little naïve to think that people will give up their trusted contacts after having just met us? But networking is far more than an annual 2-hour exchange of business cards over coffee and biscuits with everyone you meet by the palm in the corner. It’s not about how many business cards you have, or even who you know. It's about who wants to know you. True networking begins when people really want to know you, and when people call you for advise or to get your opinion before they make a change in their business. But how do we attract people to us? Networking defined – a business relationship formed to meet the needs of two or more parties on an ongoing basis Networking in the right place Before joining any group for networking purposes, be sure that the group shares a common interest with your business objectives. While networking is time well spent, it still takes time out of your busy schedule and money out of your pocket. Don't feel compelled to join every organization out there. Determine which groups are best suited to your specific needs, then join one or two. Less is more Bear in mind: 1. Members working sectors (Trade Specific or general) 2. SME’s or larger companies (This may be relevant to your desired contact list) 3. Location (May be in an area you wish to expand to, or may have several branches in different locations that you can attend at no additional cost, joining WE means you can also join WE London at an associate rate) 4. Gender based members (Is your target market predominantly male/female) 5. Cost (Costs will vary greatly depending on what is offered with membership. Do bear in mind overall costs of breakfasts and dinners if there is a minimum attendance requirement). Do you have other benefits included in your membership fee (With WE you can also attend The Media Circle presentations) 6. Requirements (Many groups will require a representative in attendance most session which may be difficult for 1 man bands, some groups require a set number of referrals per visit to be passed) "Networking is a recurring commitment" Search the “What’s on/Events” sections in your local business papers for networking groups in your area. Visit www.businessmk.co.uk to subscribe to this publication – its free and has lots of local news Or visit www.tauruspr.co.uk , as this site has some fantastic links to Networking in MK as well as loads more When you have decided what group to visit call up the organizers for an informal chat, this way you can get some background knowledge and make a valuable contact to “hand hold” on your first meeting if you decide to attend. At WE we always welcome new guests and will arrange for a “buddy” to guide you through your first visit. Most groups will allow one or two visits as a guest before asking you to commit as a member so it is useful to utilize this. Be an active member. You won't meet anybody just sitting at your desk reading the group's newsletter! So Show up Be prepared * Bring your business card case and keep it in an outside easily-accessible pocket or in a suitable filofax. * Carry a quality pen and writing tablet (leather pocket variety) for follow up notes or for those who forgot to bring their business cards and have nothing on which to write. (Remember that a large file is one more item to juggle along with the coffee cup etc). * Make sure you have enough business cards that are in good condition. * Arrive on time to avoid having to walk in on a speaker. Some events require you to turn up early for registration. Do check in advance. Find out some background info on the speaker * Approach one of the key organizers and ask for their help in pointing out possible sources of business, or one better, get them to introduce you to them: organizers are there for this purpose (or they should be). If you are very nervous see if your organizer can arrange for someone to meet you outside and take you in. When you are a confident networker you can do the same for others. * Check on parking facilities and reconfirm location. * If available get a list of attendees. Find out a little about the companies attending by visiting their websites * Who or what organization is hosting the event? * Why are you going? What is your short term goal? Long term goal? * If the event is hosted by an organization, who are the committee members or management team? * Do you have the logistics covered - you know the directions, dress code, etc * What kind of a day have you had? If you are completely frazzled, then maybe you should wait for another event. |
| Dont miss.... |
| Part 2 - First impressions, Intercepting the group, The first introduction, Know how to engage people Part 3 - Presenting your product or service, The 1 minute networking infomercial Part 4 - Targeting the right people, Closing the conversation, Tricks of the trade, Follow up |
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