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A Solid Networking Plan for Success
Networking is one of the most effective methods to market your business. But without a solid plan you cannot succeed. So, how do you go about creating a successful plan for networking success?
Step One: Create your networking “why”
If you do not know “why” you are networking, how can you create a plan? Take a few minutes and write your “why.” Consider what results you want to achieve. Once you know your “why” the plans will be easier to create.
When creating your plan the first step is to decide what type of networking is best for you. Should you choose one to two groups that you seriously dedicate yourself to and really get involved and attend regularly? Do you use the drop in method and try to get to as many different groups you can to meet the biggest number of people you can? Would online networking benefit you more? Perhaps a combination is your best bet?
Let’s look at the benefits of each to help you determine the best type of groups for you.
Dedication Method
Choosing one to two groups that you dedicate yourself to build deeper relationships and working relationships. I recommend getting involved and volunteering with some aspect of the group to deepen your involvement and relationships. This type of group is great at developing strategic alliances and setting the stage for quality referrals.
The Drop In Method
If numbers is your game then this is the best type of networking for you providing you have formed follow-up methods that you can stick to. You will meet a large number of people and be able to build a big list of contacts. Make sure you are armed with a polished intro, your marketing tools, business cards and know networking etiquette down pat! The key to this sort of networking is to make sure you are leaving a good impression.
The Online Method
If your reach is that of a global audience, online or social networking is your game. It can also work well with local service businesses if you are targeting your audience well. Personally, I think everyone should network online as it helps to create your identity online and you never know who knows whom. Referrals happen from online networking too. Once again make sure you know the rules. It amazes me the number of people who are only online to sell. You must first build relationships when networking online…the sales opportunities will follow after people know you and want to hear what you have top offer.
About nine out of ten times when I am coaching someone recommend a nice balance of the three types. In most cases it proves to be very successful.
Step 2: Creating your follow-up plan
Without one your efforts are in vain. How will you follow-up with the people you meet? How often will you connect? Follow-up is the secret to success!
Step 3: Plan your goals
Write out your short and long term goals. If one is that you would like to connect and build relationships with 120 quality people in the next year, which means 10 per month, take a look at how many meetings you are attending per week and you will know how many you need to connect and follow-up regularly with to meet your goal. Perhaps your goal is to find some joint venture partners or set up working relationships. Whatever your goals, break them down into bite-size easy to mange pieces.
If you are new to networking read up on the subject before diving in. Learning from watching other professionals is great and very effective, but remember that first impressions stick with people. The first time you meet a fellow networker should be a good experience — you want them to remember you as a professional and maybe even “wow” them.
I would like to point out some common networking mistakes before you dive in if you are new to networking and to refresh for those with experience under their belt.
- Being unprepared
- Forgetting your business cards
- Using an unprofessional email address
- Not listening or doing all the talking
- Monopolizing all of someone’s time
- Dressing down or inappropriately
- Being passive or a mouse in the corner
- Sitting next to people you know
Whether you are new to networking or a pro, create a solid plan to ensure your networking efforts get you the results you desire.
Sherry Lynn Simoes is founder of Women of Today a business support group for women that specialize in marketing and promoting businesses and author of Networking for Women Made Easy.
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