Do’s and Don’ts of Networking

So you’ve decided that networking is necessary for your business and have decided to do it. You know that you need to meet people, but, who and how? Use this guide to follow the Do’s and Don’ts of effective networking.

Do’s

Tell about yourself and your business. Be prepared with an “elevator pitch”: a thirty second synopsis of what you do and how you are unique. Have your slogan ready, your most notable successes, and plans for the immediate future.

Listen. Some people get caught up in telling others about themselves and forget to listen to what others do and their plans. Remember you are looking for potential customers, partners, or just friends who you can refer to others. Listening is as big a part to networking as telling about yourself.

Meet as many people as you can. It would be a great goal to at least shake hands with everyone in the room. However, in larger events, that may not be possible. Be sure to make a goal and do what it takes to meet it.

Take someone with you. If you don’t find it easy to speak with people, bring a person who can help with conversation and help you explain your business. A partner, board member, or key stakeholder would work. A best friend would also be great.

Collect information. Don’t allow others to just take your card. Be sure to get their contact information so you are in the driver’s seat with respect to follow up.

Don’ts

Don’t talk too much. If you talk more than 15 seconds it may be time to quiet down and listen more. You don’t want to get a negative reputation and such events. Be sure to take time to listen. Also, people came to meet others, don’t take up too much of one person’s time. You need to meet other people too!

Don’t eat or drink too much. If you are hungry, wait until after the event. You don’t want food in your teeth or breath that drives people away. You also don’t want to be inebriated and say something that you may regret. Leave the food and liquor of other occasions.

Don’t sit down and wait for people to come to you. Networking is an active event. You will have to make an effort for it to be successful. Get out there and make some connections. You can sit, eat, and drink later!

Don’t only talk to people you know. The point of networking is to make new, valuable connections. If you only speak with people you have current connections with, you will not accomplish your goals. You never know who you need to know so make sure you meet as many people as possible.

Word of mouth recommendations can be a powerful marketing tool. Networking is a major part of your organizational awareness. Network often and learn to network well. Your bottom line with thank you for it!

Want to learn more about effective networking? Read more HERE.