Why Network?

Five traits of a master networker are:
  1. Positive attitude
  2. Enthusiasm
  3. Motivation
  4. Trustworthiness
  5. Good listening skills
Key Reasons to Network
  1. Introduce yourself and your business
  2. Meet new people
  3. Build relationships
  4. Share experiences
  5. Encourage and support one another
  6. Recognize accomplishments
Accomplishing Your Goals:
  1. Set action-oriented goals early, not on New Year's Eve.
  2. Understand the plan to disrupt your industry.
  3. Leverage Partnerships.
  4. Create immense value for others.

Leave your doubts behind.

Here's some 7 networking tips that I'd like to share with you:
  • 1. Resist the urge to arrive late
    It's almost counter-intuitive, but showing up early at a networking event is a much better strategy than getting there on the later side. As a first attendee, you'll notice that it's calmer and quieter – and people won't have settled into groups yet. It's easier to find other people who don't have conversation partners yet.
  • 2. Ask easy questions
    Don't wait around the edges of the room, waiting for someone to approach you. To get the conversation started, simply walk up to a person or a group, and say, "May I join you" or "What brings you to this event?" Don't forget to listen intently to their replies. If you're not a natural extrovert, you're probably a very good listener – and listening can be an excellent way to get to know a person.
  • 3. Ditch the sales pitch
    Remember, networking is all about relationship building. Keep your exchange fun, light and informal – you don't need to do the hard sell within minutes of meeting a person. The idea is to get the conversation started. People are more apt to do business with – or partner with – people whose company they enjoy. If a potential customer does ask you about your product or service, be ready with an easy description of your company. Before the event, create a mental list of recent accomplishments, such as a new client you've landed or project you've completed. That way, you can easily pull an item off that list and into the conversation.
  • 4. Share your passion
    Win people over with your enthusiasm for your product or service. Leave a lasting impression by telling a story about why you were inspired to create your company. Talking about what you enjoy is often contagious, too. When you get other people to share their passion, it creates a memorable two-way conversation.
  • 5. Smile
    It's a simple – but often overlooked – rule of engagement. By smiling, you'll put your nervous self at ease, and you'll also come across as warm and inviting to others. Remember to smile before you enter the room, or before you start your next conversation. And if you're really dreading the event? Check the negative attitude at the door.
  • 6. Don't hijack the conversation
    Some people who dislike networking may overcompensate by commandeering the discussion. Don't forget: The most successful networkers (think of those you've met) are good at making other people feel special. Look people in the eye, repeat their name, listen to what they have to say, and suggest topics that are easy to discuss. Be a conversationalist, not a talker.
  • 7. Remember to follow up
    It's often said that networking is where the conversation begins, not ends. If you've had a great exchange, ask your conversation partner the best way to stay in touch. Some people like email or phone; others prefer social networks like LinkedIn. Get in touch within 48 hours of the event to show you're interested and available, and reference something you discussed, so your contact remembers you.
Here are 4 networking tips:
  1. Be a connector. Work to think of connections you can make for the person to whom you are speaking. People will naturally want to connect you with prospects as well.
  2. When you share, share the benefits your customers receive as a result using your products and services. People want to know, “what is in it for them?” For example, “as a result of my services, my clients reduce their stress and improve their stamina. This results in increased self-confidence, increased earning potential and the energy to enjoy their time with their family.”
  3. Express your positive thoughts about the person and/or their business. So many times we assume successful people don’t need to be commended or reassured, but everyone enjoys it.
  4. Remember, business networking is marketing, and marketing is a process. Chances are you won’t get 5 new clients or customers from your next networking event. Your goal should be for others to get to know you, the resources you possess and the services you offer. People want to do business with people they like. Realize that these events allow people to become acquainted with you and eventually utilize your services or recommend you to someone else.

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