Even if you are providing the most amazing service or product, you are basically doomed without networking. In theory, every entrepreneur knows how important networking is. But in reality, building relationships isn’t so simple. The truth is, networking is a two-way conduct. It enables you and the other person to help each other.
Building quality and organic relationships takes time but it doesn’t necessarily have to be difficult. Here are some of the easiest ways to network for new business opportunities!
1. Find the suitable networking groups
Smart entrepreneurs choose the right events and groups to show their business cards. Linkedin groups count too- choose Linkedin for relevant groups with like-minded professionals who actively plan offline events and engage in other people’s businesses.
When you choose the right networking group, you are leaving your inner circle and comfort zone altogether. Try to diversify your network as much as possible. Go beyond the vertical ties and people in your immediate circle. Open up to your competitors and suppliers, besides the unrelated businesses.
2. Connect with influencers
Connecting with influencers has become a commonplace practice. Whether your purpose is to build a name for yourself or to establish your own network, connecting with influencers can be a shortcut to achieving your goals. Still, you need to find the right influencers and engage with them correctly in order to do that.
Influenceris a person who has access to other highly influential people in your industry. He or she is also very likely followed and trusted by your target audience.
After you establish who are the relevant influencers in your industry, the next logical step is to find out what your business can do for them. Think about the things you can offer an influencer. Don’t just rush with a business plan or a request for funding. Instead, think what your potential relationship can bring to the table and how you can both benefit from it.
3. Enter Awards
Entering Awards can bring many benefits to your business. Besides being a fantastic platform for recognition and exposure, entering awards is perfect for networking. Awards such as UK Digital Experience Awards offer the access to open panels, where all Finalists can meet and listen to other company representatives.
Besides expanding your list of contacts, Awards are a great way to find out more about the current trends in your industry and practices other business people are applying.
4. Offer something of value
When you walk up to someone at a networking event, think about what you can offer besides how you can benefit from what someone else has to offer.
Once you have starter building up a relationship, offer something of value. Being helpful is one of the fastest ways to build an actual relationship with someone. But don’t worry, you don’t have to make promises to everyone in the room. The trick is to be helpful without expecting anything in return.
People love good listeners. By openly sharing your experiences and being attentive, you are leaving a lasting impression of someone you cares. Also, think about hosting a free workshop or seminar. Offer to be a guest speaker and share your knowledge without expecting a sale. Put yourself out there (reasonably) and your network will grow into the sea of various business opportunities.
5. Create your own business opportunities
In an age where an online group can be organised in less than 10 minutes, there is really no excuse for not building business relationships. Create your own opportunities by advertising a free webinar on Linkedin or Facebook. Be persistent in offering free content, advice and insights to a growing audience.
Remember how many times you complained about the lack of quality networking groups in your area? Create your own instead! Recruit guest speakers with expertise on topics that will benefit other entrepreneurs and leverage your role as a leader that offer value to your group. Event if you aren’t a “natural networker,” you should put yourself out there and refine your technique. And when you fail, try again.
The trick is to realise that adopting the mentality of building relationships is absolutely necessary for your success. Once you figure out the best way to do this, everything else will seem much easier. All aspects of your business will prosper, from launching a new business idea to hiring a professional team.
Are you satisfied with your networking skills? You should come and practice at the upcoming UK Digital Experience Awards 2016!
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