Make Connections Count
Business networking tips to help you build better connections and create more opportunities.
Good networking isn’t about collecting as many business cards or LinkedIn connections as possible. It’s about starting conversations, building relationships and creating opportunities – for you and for the people you meet.
Whether you’re walking into a room where you know nobody, reconnecting with familiar faces or heading to a major business event, a little preparation can make a big difference to what you take away from it.
Go In With A Purpose
Before the event, think about what you’d like to achieve.
Is there someone you’d particularly like to meet? A type of business you want to connect with? A challenge you need help solving? A new market you’re exploring?
Having an idea of what you’re looking for helps – but don’t become so focused on your list that you miss the unexpected opportunities around you.
Some of the best business connections are the ones you didn’t plan.
Be Interested, Not Just Interesting
You don’t need the perfect elevator pitch. Be able to explain clearly what you do, but spend just as much time finding out about the person in front of you. Ask questions. Listen. Be curious.
You might discover they’re a potential customer. They might know somebody you should meet. You might be able to help them first.
Great networking is a conversation, not a sales pitch.
Don’t stay in the safe zone
Spotted someone you know? Brilliant. Say hello. Just don’t spend the entire event with them. Sit somewhere different. Introduce yourself to someone new. Speak to exhibitors. Talk to the person beside you while you’re waiting for coffee.
The whole point of putting yourself in a room full of people is to discover who you don’t know yet.
Make the connection count
Meeting is only the beginning. Connect on LinkedIn or wherever they hang out, make a note of what you talked about and follow up while the conversation is still fresh.
If you promised an introduction, make it. If you said you’d send something, send it. If there was a reason to continue the conversation, suggest the next step.
The real value of networking is rarely what happens in the room. It’s what happens afterwards.
Download the WIB360 Networking Tips Guide
Want a few more ideas before your next event?
Our free WIB360 Networking Tips Guide covers what to do before, during and after an event to help you feel prepared, make better connections and get more from being in the room.