Business networking is all about forming strong relationships built on mutual respect and trust. Those relationships are the , The basis for the single most important tool that we all need if we want to survive in the competitive 21st century.
I'm talking about referrals and today's savvy business professionals know that,just as night follows day,networking leads to referral business.
Opportunities to network--to meet people for mutual support (and eventually referrals)--are everywhere. Here are just a few places to consider starting your networking efforts:
Join your professional association. It's a powerful source of richly rewarding contacts that can result in a tremendous number of referrals from people with a different specialty than yours. If possible, join the professional association of your target market. Form networking relationships there. See and be seen among the members and before you know it, you will be considered the "go-to" person in your industry.
Whether you're interested in sports, the Internet, politics, crafts, poetry, theater, travel, or underwater basket weaving, there are other people who share your interests. Ask around, look at your local newspaper listings or search the Internet for groups you can join.
If you're new to a city and haven't had the chance to meet many people yet, you'll be delighted to learn that a lot of communities all over the world have clubs for people just like you.
Type your town or city and the term "newcomers club" into your favorite search engine and you'll be able to tap into people who can help you start networking in your area.
Again, go to your favorite search engine. Type in your locale and the term "networking events."
Review the business section of your local newspaper. Often they list upcoming events for the week in Monday's edition. If you can't find any networking opportunities listed there, call a business reporter and ask him or her to point you in the right direction. The call itself can be a very powerful networking moment.
These are structured networking organizations usually limited to one person per occupation. The purpose is primarily to exchange business referrals, and the amount of business that comes from a well-run group can be staggering. I started and ran my own leads groups for over a decade and I know how powerful they can be in accelerating business growth.
Again, ask around for a good group in your area or search the search engines under "business networks," "leads groups," or "referral groups" plus your town or city's name.
These can be wonderful networking opportunities, especially the ones that run over several days. Take advantage of the interactive exercises and the breaks to get to know other participants. Staying in touch after the event is over is key in deepening those relationships
Do something good for others while creating lasting relationships with your volunteer colleagues. Knock people's socks off with what you do as a volunteer and it will give people an indication of how you conduct your business. This will make you incredibly attractive to potential referral partners in the group.
Check out the networking opportunities that your local Chamber of Commerce offers. Also use them as a resource for finding other networking events in your community.
Opportunities abound to meet people through your children. Whether you're leading a Scout troop, chaperoning a dance, attending a soccer game, setting up carpools, or manning a booth at a bake sale, doesn't matter. What matters is that it's pretty well impossible not to create relationships with other parents when you are surrounded by them.
The best place to network is always where members of your target market hang out.
Bottom Line:If you want more business, you need referrals, and if you want referrals, you need to network.
(c) Copyright Leni Chauvin
Leni Chauvin, The Client Attraction Coach™, has helped thousands of self-employed and commissioned professionals attract more clients, make more money, and have more fun while they're doing it. For tons of f.r.e.e. client attraction, networking, and marketing resources including the mini course "7 Key Client Attraction Tools For Solo Professionals" visit http://www.AttractClientsGalore.com
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