Networking Basics

Filed in archive General on March 5, 2010

It's important to make sure that you continue to meet new people when you work from home. First, it gets you out of the house and second it adds to your list of contacts (which should lead to sales). One way to meet people is by attending networking luncheons.

A networking lunch is where a group of professionals get together over a meal to mingle and help each other make connections. Usually there is a period of time during the lunch where everyone introduces themselves; they may additionally have the opportunity to give a quick elevator speech about their company.

Here are some tips to make these lunch hours more effective (and a few etiquette points as well.)

�¢ Go armed with business cards. Take more than you think you'll need.
�¢ Do not try to "Sell" to everyone there. Build relationships instead of just passing out cards.
�¢ Be reciprocal. If you want to get referrals, give them to others. If you want people to listen to you when you talk, pay them the courtesy of listening to them.
�¢ Work on your elevator pitch. Make sure to include your name, what your company does and something memorable, and the best way to reach you if you have time. Prepare to speak before you get there. People won't think less of you if you're not polished, but they will be impressed if you are.
�¢ Go to these meeting with a goal in mind. The goal doesn't have to be to make a sale, it can be to work on your speaking or meet three new people. Find a group that will facilitate you reaching these goals.
�¢ Be careful with your time. Meeting in one-on-ones does build relationships, but if you aren't serving each other it's not an effective use of your time. If you attend a group and get no business out of it, directly or indirectly, find somewhere else!

Have you attended networking groups? What was your experience like?