How To Benefit from the Networking Time You Invest
Many business owners are constantly working IN their business , rather than allocating some time to also work ON their business. They can also waste a lot of time by attending events that do not expand their knowledge, connections or opportunities. They might be comfortable, but moving out of that comfort zone and reaching others can have many benefits. I am certainly not encouraging a scatter gun approach, as it takes time to build relationships but I suggest you identify 2 or 3 diverse groups and invest your time building know, like and trust .
Set Yourself Goals for Networking
If you apply the same approach to building relationships and a network for your PROFESSIONAL needs, you might write your goals like this:
Specific- I want to build a network of 100 connections so I can create 35 trusted relationships that will help me to generate leads and grow my business.
Measurable- I will make 5 new connections at each event I attend. I will need to attend 20 events over a 6-month period.
Achievable - is it feasible? Yes, if I make the effort to make conversation and move out of my comfort zone, and choose the right events.
Realistic- I will need to schedule the time to attend enough events and then nurture these connections to create beneficial relationships.
Timely- I know it will take time to build trust. I will have this network of 35 trusted people within a year.
Identify the Resources Your Need
Networking events can provide business owners and professionals the opportunity to meet others who have faced, or are facing face similar challenges. They also provide opportunity to find the supplier, client, referrer, friend or future collaborator that you need. However, you need to be having open and authentic conversations to help you seek out and identify the support , connections and opportunities. do not be afraid to be honest. It will be refreshing to hear that you are not alone and that what seems like a problem can actually be a great opportunity for growth.
Schedule Your Time
Spend time researching events on Google or ask colleagues for recommendations to find events and workshops that they have enjoyed and found beneficial. There are many reasons to network and various types of networking events that will benefit you, so be willing to open yourself up to opportunities.
In an article I recently read , this point made perfect sense to me…“If you want to make time for networking, you need to be intentional when it comes to making room on your schedule. Odds are, you may not be able to attend an event last-minute, but you can plan ahead by getting organized.”
Follow up and nurture relationships
Just as you should plan ahead, you MUST also schedule time to follow up after an event with those you have met. or you may as well stay home!
The best relationships are those that are honest, sincere, of value to both parties, and bear the test of time. This should be your goal; to nurture mutual relationships and treasure your connections. One-sided relationships can be disheartening. Do not leave all the effort to one person. Participate with sincerity in the ebb and flow of your shared and individual needs.
The online world can make it easier to stay in touch but harder to stay connected in a way that really sustains your relationships. We all get busy and distracted by our next priority. It’s so easy to let opportunities go because we feel we’ve left it too long and too much time has passed. I cannot emphasise enough—don’t let time and opportunities go to waste.
Make the effort and reach out. Invest both personally and professionally in face-to-face situations.
Why Invest in Networking
By investing time and consistency, you will create relationships with people you know like and trust we will help you to grow your business and use the time you are investing wisely.
Need some help to develop your networking strategy? I can help. Read more here and then let’s start a conversation . Take the opportunity to book a 20 minute complimentary call here to get your thinking started.
