For business professionals, networking is one of the most crucial ingredients to success. However, for those new to their industries or new to business in general, it may be difficult to determine the best ways to network with like-minded people. Don’t lose hope – it’s super easy once you’ve found the right resources and outlets!
Attend events designed to help you network within your industry or community.
Networking events are a fantastic way to meet other people either in your industry or your local community. At these events, it’s super easy to connect with people and have conversations. It’s always a good idea to have business cards with you for networking events; make sure you’re stocked up before you head to an event!
Additionally, there are some events created specifically to increase business’ client network. At events like this, you may be asked to present a short sales pitch to the attendees; the idea is that this will create more active working business relationships. These are a great option if you’re looking to gain more clients!
If our world ever goes through another time period of mostly remote meetings, that doesn’t mean networking has to stop! Many programs have popped up designed to restore the ability to network even though people aren’t able to meet in person. Here in Mishawaka, Blackwood’s own Ryan Zerfas saw a need and created a virtual networking event called Michiana Virtual Connect. The opportunities are out there – you just have to look!
Become more active on LinkedIn.
LinkedIn is, quite honestly, a godsend for business professionals. If you aren’t yet familiar, LinkedIn is a social media platform specifically engineered to help you network. On LinkedIn, you can connect with people you know personally or professionally and share articles or posts related to your business. It’s a great place to find advice, job postings, motivation, and events in your area, too!
Photo by LinkedIn Sales Navigator on Unsplash
Additionally, the more active you are on LinkedIn, the more connections you’re likely to have. If you get into a routine of posting on LinkedIn every week or so, your engagement will increase. Then, you’ll begin to see more content from people with similar goals or skills as you. It’s a great way to meet people and form business relationships!
Photo by LinkedIn Sales Navigator on Unsplash
Say yes to every meeting (within reason).
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. -Wayne Gretzky -Michael Scott”
Both Wayne and Michael have the right idea here. Try to say yes to as many meetings as possible! Even if it turns out to be a flop, you still put yourself out there, and you still made a connection with somebody. Maybe you even have a funny story to tell the rest of your life!
Of course, if you get a bad feeling about a person or can’t make it fit into your schedule, don’t sweat it. You know yourself best! But, if you do have the opportunity and availability, take that meeting.
Always follow-through and build trust as you network!
The best way to encourage a continuing business relationship is to follow up after every meeting. Whether that’s writing a note, shooting a thank-you text or email, or calling, make sure to express how good it was to meet with them. Even if the meeting didn’t go as planned, it’s nice to follow up and thank them for meeting anyway.
Photo by Scott Graham on Unsplash
Doing this helps you build trust within your network. When you’re actively taking the time to thank people for spending their time with you, you begin to establish deeper relationships and a feeling of trust. If you continually keep your word and put effort into the relationship, you’re doing an amazing job!
If your current digital marketing strategy isn’t quite cutting it anymore, look no further. Reach out to our team here at Blackwood Creative. We’re in the business of building remarkable brands, and with our team of experts on your side, yours could be next. Contact us today!
