I firmly believe in the power of networking as I have seen first hand how this has helped me grow professionally and personally. You need to be consistent with your networking efforts and this holds true for both online and offline networking.
There are a few basic tips you should remember when it comes to networking and they are as follows:
1. Networking is not about selling your business or products to everyone you meet.
2. Don't come on too strong the first time you meet new people.
3. Share about yourself, not just your business. "People do business with people they trust and people they have gotten to know."
4. Ask people what they do and invite them to share about themselves and their business.
5. Listen more than you talk and ask questions that will get people talking - not just a yes or no answer.
6. Make notes on things people have that might be useful to yourself or others.
*tip* I keep index cards on business contacts in a file box. I will write down information about this business contact on the index cards.
7. Find common ground with the person you're getting to know. "People do business with people just like them."
8. If asked what you do don't give someone a long sales pitch. Keep it short and informative. If they want to know more they will ask.
9. Always tell the person you were talking with it was a pleasure meeting them and ask if it is OK if you add them to your contact list.
10. Ask for their business card - that way you can be sure that there will be follow up. You can exchange cards if you wish but always get their card or if online, their email or IM name. Ask permission to contact them again.
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