A huge potential source of new business is the network of people who know, like, and trust you. That list includes: current and former customers; the people you partner with; people you could partner with in the future; and people in businesses you don’t compete with but who work with the same customers you’re looking to attract. This network is a valuable source of leads and referrals to grow your revenue. Plus, you often won’t have to compete with others or tap into your marketing budget to get the business.

So, beyond your current and former customers, what’s the best way to grow your network? Is it through social media, websites, texts, or emails? Or is it better to rely on old school phone calls, mailings, or printed materials? The answer is, none of the above. Studies reveal the most effective way to build your network is simply by networking!

Strategies to Use Online and IRL (In Real Life)

Online events. When you’re networking at an online event, present yourself in the best way possible by doing the following:

  • Never turn off the camera.
  • Check that your dress and background are appropriate.
  • To make a comment to the group or connect with individuals, use the Chat function.
  • When on Zoom, remember to save the Chat as the meeting wraps up.
  • If you’re the host, require attendees to register ahead of time. This gives you their contact information and lets you know how many to expect.

IRL events. When networking in person, follow these tips:

  • Dress professionally but be comfortable.
  • Ask questions that require more than a yes or no answer.
  • Keep the talk focused on the other person.
  • Make eye contact and actively listen—smile, nod your head, offer agreement when you can.
  • Ask for the other person’s business card or contact info, but only give yours if the other person asks for it.

Tips for Every Networking Event

Before the event:

  • Set a goal. What do you want to accomplish by attending the event? Who would you like to meet? Do some preliminary research if you can, to see who might be coming. Decide how many connections you’d like to make—one, three, five?—and leave once you’ve reached that goal.
  • Set a timeframe. Plan to stay for an hour or more. Leave when that time is up. This is a good tactic to use if you’re nervous about attending an event.
  • Plan your day accordingly. If the event is in the morning or at noon, you may want to lighten up the rest of your day. If it’s an evening event, you may want to keep your daytime schedule on the light side.

At the event:

  • Communicate how you provide value. When you’re talking to someone, try to find out their needs, dreams, who they’d like to be introduced to. Offer ways you could help them.
  • Follow up! Make a note on your phone after talking to each person, with their name and what you talked about. When you get back to work, send each new contact a quick text or email saying it was nice to meet them, suggest or confirm a follow-up meeting, if you got to that point in your initial conversation.
  • Remember that networking is about building relationships. You’re not going to get along fabulously with everyone you meet. But with the people you do make a good connection with, invite them to have coffee or lunch, or a serious meeting if that’s the appropriate next step. If it isn’t, don’t worry. Networking is about building relationships—and that’s a long-term game.

And remember, your AdviCoach is ready to help you dial up your networking efforts to bring your success to the next level.