|
Networking_ _Its_Important
| Networking - Its Important!
Networking opportunities are everywhere. Don't let them pass you
by.
1. Recognize that there is more to networking than greeting
people. Develop a step-by-step plan for how you'll build
relationships and how you can effectively tell your story. Don't
forget your 30 second commercial to tell your story.
2. Zero in on specific groups of people. Who are the ideal
prospects for your business? Do they live nearby? What
activities do they participate in? Try networking groups
meetings. For those of us in lease purchasing we network with
real estate agents, accountants, financial planners, and a
multitude of others.
3. Determine where you'll be most likely to find your ideal
prospects. Do they belong to specific organizations or
associations? Do they frequent particular events, performances
or recreational facilities? Again, for those of us in lease
purchasing, investors, buyers and sellers are just the
beginning.
4. Identify organizations, events, professional groups and
social clubs whose members meet your profile characteristics,
and get involved. Get to know people, and let them know what you
do. Volunteer for committees, attend conferences, and maximize
opportunities that might spin off from the formal sessions. For
those of you in lease purchasing, and even other businesses,
become an expert. Give seminars, speeches, write articles.
Become involved and get your name out there.
5. Work on your ability to make small talk. Have some prepared
topics in mind—current events, sports, vacation plans. And be
sure to ask open-ended questions of the other person like "What
is it you enjoy most about your work, or where you live or your
free time?" Remember, too, that having a good conversation
depends greatly on being an active, courteous listener. Again,
your thirty second commercial is a must. And let's emphasize
again being a good and courteous listener.
6. Explore organizations dedicated to business networking.
Chambers of commerce, tenant associations and networking clubs
offer opportunities for you to meet and greet. Look for the
groups in your area. Many times your local paper has a certain
day of the week that lists all of these types of meetings. If
you don't see it, call your paper and ask about it.
7. Look for partners. Specifically, look for other businesses
that complement what you do and might be a good source of
referrals. Again, those of us in lease purchasing have it easy.
We have a ton of people to work with. For those of you in other
businesses, think of who would complement your business. If you
are a travel agent, how about hotels, spas; a flower shop, what
about bridal shops, catering services, party planners... you get
the idea.
8. Don't look at networking as a sales opportunity. Instead,
look at it as a reconnaissance mission—a chance for you to learn
something and enjoy the scenery. There is a proper time and
place for sales calls. This is a very important point. Read it
over and over again. Networking is not sales.
9. Make a habit of being patient, polite and friendly to people,
whether or not you're in an "orchestrated" setting. This is just
good business behavior. If you are going to run a business, at
least a successful one, these are just some of the
characteristics and behavior you will need to employ.
10. Finally, do something constructive with the names and
information you've gathered. Stay in touch with the most
meaningful contacts. Again, those of us in lease purchasing know
the importance of following up and have numerous ways to do so.
For those of you in other types of business, develop a few types
of follow-up methods; such as phone, fax, newsletter, brochure,
card and letter.
Referrals, introductions and contacts that simply come by chance
are like gifts. Be sure to thank anyone who helps you network,
and when appropriate pay a nice referral fee. Your ability to be
seen as a giver rather than a taker will spread the word that
you are someone with whom people want to do business.
Copyright 2001 DeFiore Enterprises
About the author:
Interested in having your own successful, home based creative
real estate investing business? Chuck and Sue have been helping
folks start successful home based businesses for over 19 years,
and we can help you too! To see how, visit
http://www.homebusinesssolutions.com
|
|
| |
| |
