You are likely familiar with the saying, “it’s not what you know but who you know,” and to an extent, many would argue that it is true. As a business owner, effective networking is one of the most important things you can do to expand your business knowledge, leverage relationships and establish a strong reputation as a professional in your industry. Developing a strong business network allows you to create strong connections with industry leaders and could potentially open doors to new opportunities.
Being visible and making yourself known is crucial in developing long-term sustainability for you and your business. To help you get started, here are my top three tips on how to enhance your business networking skills.
- Make business networking become a habit. Like anything else, the more you practice, the more it becomes a habit. Force yourself to attend one business networking event every month. Look at your calendar, pick a date and bring a stack of business cards. To learn about these events, consider joining an industry association or your local Chamber of Commerce. If you travel for business, make time to meet up with an industry colleague from out of town. Every business opportunity is an opportunity to build your professional network.
- Utilize professional social media platforms. LinkedIn and other professional social media platforms are great outlets to keep in touch with friends and colleagues in your industry. By enhancing your social media presence, you will be able to keep up with local networking events in your area, join relevant groups and engage in industry conversations. While social media is never a replacement for face-to-face contact, it will allow you to maintain relationships in between in-person meetings. It is also important to recognize the difference between your personal and professional social media platforms. On professional platforms, avoid engaging in political discussions or other controversial topics.
- Build a connection. Always remember that networking is focused on building genuine connections. While building a relationship on the professional level is beneficial, it is equally important to connect with your business network on a personal level. When your colleagues leave the office, what do they do? Initiate conversation and show you are genuinely interested. Relationships that are built on a personal level are significantly more powerful than strictly professional.
Business networking is one of the most powerful and inexpensive ways to enhance your professional career. Not only is it a way to build a strong reputation, but it also connects you to people, information and trends in your industry. QCBN
By David Dinerman
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