Become a Networking dream

Do you sometimes say to yourself...

"I can't spare the time to Network?"

So here’s a question -

Can you afford not to?

The dictionary definition of Networking...

The exchange of information and ideas among people with a common profession or special interest, usually in an informal social setting.

But I prefer this definition from

Ivan Misner  (ENTREPRENEUR LEADERSHIP NETWORK VIP)

He gives us an up-to date, relevant definition...

''To be successful with business networking, you should understand that it is really about helping others as a way of growing your business.
The people you help are more willing to help you or connect you to people they know.
So in essence, networking is part of the process you go through to build a referral-based business.
Through networking, you can deliver your positive message effectively. Referrals are the end result.''

Thanks to Ivan for that great explanation!

I’ve listed some tips that may help someone starting out (or is already a regular) on the networking scene!

1. Prepare your 60 second speech.

2. Be enthusiastic and smile.

3. Be concise when explaining your business and what you have to offer.

4. Focus on just one of your packages rather than bombarding everyone with everything you do.

5. Usually you have 60 secs, so keep it upbeat and interesting, don't ramble.

6. Use a testimonial or a story about how you have helped a customer or client.

7. Describe your ideal customer

8. Have business card information ready to add to the online chat. (This will save you time so you don't miss out on anything during the meeting).

9. Use the business cards and attendance sheets you receive to write notes for each person you meet. (What did you talk about? How can you help them? How can they help you?)

10. Remember the real business starts when you leave.

11. Make contact within 48hours, the sooner you reach out the easier the conversation will flow.

12. Connect with people using LinkedIn, Facebook and all their other social media platforms.

13. Write a personal note, this is a great way to start a conversation and remind them that you met at a certain event, what you spoke about and how you can help each other.

14. Arrange a 121, 60 seconds isn’t a long time, this is why 121’s can be so valuable. You can find out so much more about each other which could potentially benefit you both.

15. Remember to get permission before adding anyone to your email list.

16. Keep a track of who you’ve connected with and where! - you never know when it might be useful

I've been Networking for over 15 years and my goodness I've made some mistakes.

But from those I have learnt!

If you want to tap into more of my 'Learning from my Mistakes' then take a look at my membership group No B.S. Just Brand Secrets 

Click here

Sally Inkster

Finding Brand YOU!

What's a personal Brand?

''It's who you are, your values and beliefs and the ENERGY you bring to all you do''