Are you looking for ways to expand your business network and make the most of your networking opportunities? You're not alone. Many professionals are searching for new and innovative methods to connect with other professionals and increase their sales. To help you learn about these unique networking strategies, we asked 14 professionals from the Forbes Coaches Council to share their “secret” tactics. There are numerous types of networking opportunities available, and they are constantly changing and evolving.
To make the most of these chances, it's essential to research current trends and decide which activities are best suited to your company. Not only should you attend your networking group meetings regularly, but also be prepared to offer something of value to the group. In addition to attending meetings, there are many online groups that offer networking services and communities. LinkedIn is an example of a large group or networking site that can bring together professionals.
You can also find and attend business seminars, cultivate new working relationships with your new colleagues and business partners, and then communicate regularly to help them stay up-to-date.
The Most Important Skill: Listening
The most important skill for establishing effective business networks is listening; focusing on how you can help the person you're listening to rather than how he or she can help you is the first step in establishing a mutually beneficial relationship. Networking events or local business lunches offer you the opportunity to meet others who are in similar circumstances as you work to grow your business.Networking Through Centers of Influence
A unique way of networking that isn't widely used is to establish networks through your centers of influence, even if they're not in the same industry as you.Often, it's the networking efforts of a business owner that produce the most results in small businesses. The advantages of business networks are the intangible gains you get from communicating with other professionals in your industry or related to it. If your company needs equity funding, you may be able to find an angel investor or venture capitalist through network channels.
Networking Locally
Much local business is still done through a handshake, and the best way to network with other local business owners and entrepreneurs is through face-to-face meetings and local business groups.The Chamber of Commerce (CoC) is a great resource for this type of networking. Not only do they offer other member benefits, such as discounts for corporate members, but they also regularly host lunches, workshops on business topics, and other networking events, giving members plenty of opportunities to connect with other organizations.
Strategic Networking
Networking in these centers must be done with a strategic plan, which allows your centers of influence to be in a position to recommend and attract business to you. For example, if your company needs the services of an accountant, accountant or lawyer, you can find the ideal candidate through your network. By taking advantage of these strategies from experts in the field, you can unlock the secrets of successful business networking opportunities.With careful research and preparation, you can make sure that each opportunity is maximized for its potential.
