Success Through Networking in 2009
There are many keys to success. This year make networking one of your most important keys. We have a fresh calendar in front of us. Now is the time to make plans for your business this year. In addition to marketing efforts or hiring quality staff, having a strong network is important to the success of your business. here is some of my advice for networking this year:
Set Goals
Setting goals is incredibly important for any aspect of your life that you want to be successful in. Networking is no exception. What are your networking goals? Join a professional network or trade group? Build a social networking presence online? Add 10 key players to your inner circle? Great! Write down the goals and the steps you will have to complete to get you there. If you do not belong to any professional networking groups, your first step will be to brainstorm what kind of groups you want to belong to and which groups are available in your area.
Choose the right networks for you
There’s nothing wrong with being on different websites or attending meetings across several groups. But if half the things you are doing aren’t either a) bringing you clients b) bringing you strategic partners, joint venture opportunities, etc or c) bring educational value that will help you as a professional, you might need to cut the fat. Your time is precious. With so many options available, it is imperative that you choose wisely. Stick to the networks that give you a positive return – and determine what a positive return is to you. If you are just starting to join networks, choose the ones that you believe will bring you the best connections, the most education, and quality referrals. One solid client that is a pleasure to work with is better than 5 difficult clients who just flat out aren’t worth the trouble.
Follow through
If you RSVP for an event, inform the host if you can no longer make it. If you show up at an event and meet people, do not promise to call them Tuesday if it is not a promise you can not keep. It it perfectly appropriate to say “I have a packed week ahead, but let’s talk the week of the 15th and schedule a time to get together for lunch.” If you mention that you have a great contact for them, absolutely follow through with that information. You would want them to come through for you, wouldn’t you?
Sticking to these three points will be incredibly important as you continue on your networking journey. What other advice have you heard that has helped you gain networking success?
