Business Networking-Build a solid network

BUILD A SOLID NETWORK

BY DEBBIE GILBERT

Time

Building a good, strong, large and solid network takes time and effort!There are no quick fixes By attending events then learning how to engage via support & follow upThere is no magic wand!Networking is all about supporting and helping others

HELP!

H =How can you help?

E =EngagementL= ListenP=Proactive

H= How can you help?

By learning to really understand what other people do and looking at ways in which you can do things to support them.Refer friends, family and other business associates to businesses you know, like and trustLike a Facebook page- share posts/commentFollow/mention and RT on TwitterGive a testimonialConnect on LinkedIn Share interesting information e.g. article/posts Working on joint venturesSharing knowledgeWho can you connect together?

E=Engagement

If you truly engage with people they will engage back!

This means arrange to have 121’s, follow up and attend events on a regular basis.Helping is part of that engagementThere are no limitations!To get known you have to be known!

But for all the right reasons....

L=Listen

Its so important to be a good listener.Even if you do not feel you are being listened to!By listening you can open your mind to so many opportunitiesFact find, ask questions, listen to the replies and learn how to quickly pick up on the most important facts.

P-Proactive

Be the one who takes action!Don't wait for others to call or email you-JFD!You may get rejected- their loss!Follow up from every event you attend- yes it takes time but it will give you success.You can never build a network just by attending events-its what you do after that counts.

MY TOP TIPS WHEN NETWORKING

Be positive and smile- no matter what stuff is going on in your life leave it behind when you shut your front door

Don't make negative statements about yourself.It doesn't matter if you have just started your business, still learning or that your business isn't going well. Positivity draws people to you- negatives sends them rushing for the door!

Learn from others- you cannot be good at everything. Be willing to share your ideas and expertise and others will share with you.

What problems does your business solve?How does your product/service make a difference –when talking to people focus on what you solve rather than what you do!

Have good clear literature and only give your card to someone who asks!

NEVER just add people to your database unless they have asked you to.