Simple Yet Effective Strategies For Business Networking

Part of growing your small business is putting yourself out there and making new professional connections. These connections can lead to the success of your business. More than that, these connections can become your co-workers, clients, mentors, or friends. It really boils down to some simple etiquette and people skills. 

Practice

It can be awkward and uncomfortable talking with new people, especially if they have a different knowledge or skill set than you. The only way to break through the weird is to experience is over and over again. Attend mixers, luncheons, and any other networking event you can find. It only gets easier the more you do it. 

Expand Your Circle

It’s easy to fall into a funk with the people you know and love, but meeting new faces can bring new opportunities. Make it a goal to introduce yourself to at least one new person at every event. As they say, it’s all about who you know. Don’t forget to meet people in other industries, as well. Opportunities can be everywhere, and can be limitless.  

Build Rapport

It’s all about how you present yourself. Listen, communicate, and engage. Focus on establishing a relationship, not a connection. It’s all about the quality of your words, not the quantity. 

Don’t Ask - Give

People are often quick to get you involved in what they’re working on. Rather than asking for things from others, give back to them instead. Pass on referrals, give advice, and good karma will come back to you. Focus on how you can help people, not how they can help you. 

Forget Business

Talk with people about something other than what you do to pay the bills. It’s easier to establish a genuine connection when you have similar hobbies or interests. It’s all about discussing what you have interest and passion in. Bring along topics other than business. 

For information on B2B Mixers in the Southeast Michigan area, click here.