10 tips for effective business networking are:
Make the most out of business networking, whether that is at networking events, networking meetings and clubs, networking groups or in a social networking context.
- Listen to what others are telling you about their business.
- Have the ability to communicate effectively who you are and what you do.
- Build a relationship! Meet on a 1-to-1 basis after the networking event and get to know people and their business.
- If you see someone standing on their own, draw them into your conversation.
- If you promise to deliver something, make sure you do it; whether that is a follow-up contact after the networking event or anything else.
- Maintain the relationship you have with people you know, but don’t spend all your time in the comfort zone of talking to established contacts; you won’t make any new contacts or identify new business opportunities by doing that.
- Don’t hard sell to the people you meet.
- Be aware of the impact of intruding on someone-else’s personal space, your tone of voice and your body language. A simple smile can light up a room! Understand group body language so you know when to join a group and when you are about to interrupt at a vital stage.
- Deal with others as you would want them to deal with you. Your reputation is your most positive asset - if you have a good one.
- Don't miss an opportunity to network, whether that is at a business networking event or in a social environment where you can make new contacts.
