With the festive season and networking events right around the corner, we’ve got some quick tips for successful networking to ensure you maximise all of your opportunities.
One of the key factors of being successful in business has always come down to networking with the right people. From creating introductions to building trust and reputation, networking is a core strength of successful business leaders. When people trust you they will buy from you and recommend you to people they know. Networking is equally a skill that can be learned, and the more people you meet at events the better a networker you will learn to be. But the most essential tip for successful networking is attending the right events – it’s really where it all starts.
If you spend some time researching local business events in your area, you will find many opportunities to network with the right people. If you are a tourism operator, look up your local tourism body and sign up to be notified of their upcoming events. Often there is an annual membership cost involved, but usually, it’s a small price to pay in exchange for the valuable contacts you will make.
One of the key benefits of joining Bartercard is the networking events that provide opportunities for meeting local business owners within your region. Each Bartercard branch holds annual networking events which are attended by members actively looking to do business. Seasonal Trade Shows provide the opportunity to showcase your product to hundreds of consumers. Another benefit is the relationship you will build with your Account Manager (Trade Broker) who will recommend your product or service to thousands of other members within the network.
Simple tips for successful networking
1. Research and attend local industry events. Ask your Trade Broker what networking events and Trade Shows are coming up.
2. Always carry a business card with you – you never know who you will meet on your way to the office or at your local coffee shop!
3. Know how to market yourself well. Memorise a 30-second spiel which summarises your business to a tee and use this as a standard introduction at networking events
4. Follow up useful contacts with a quick email letting them know it was great to meet them.
5. Connect with people online. Networking is no longer limited to events – websites such as LinkedIn are connecting people and creating business relationships in the digital space. If a new contact’s business has a Facebook page, like it! Or if they have a blog, ensure you check it regularly. You may have the opportunity to comment on their posts or entries with industry advice, letting you position yourself as an expert in your field.
