Networking is about building relationships.  Many relationships are not built on one or two meetings.  Chose who to follow up with and create a connection.  Don’t choose from people with the best title.  Remember who has shared common interest and invite them for coffee or lunch to build the connection.  Share information and opportunities network.

What is Networking: Many individuals believe networking is just a time to search for jobs or have an evening out with other people. Both can be true however business networking has a different meaning and outcomes.  Business networking consist of:

• Developing a circle of contacts to exchange ideas, share professional business challenges and/or successes
• Make and build connections, relationships and partnerships

Why Network: When networking you want a reason to network not only to eat and drink but build a professional connection base. You don’t want to show up at a network event expecting a miracle to build relationships. Some important reasons are:

• Build strong professional relationships
• Contribute to social well-being
• To exchange ideas
• Help meet others in all professional levels
• Boost professional confidence
• Fellow business owners can help with problems solving faster
• Build partnerships and collaborations
• Build connections that may lead to future employment

You also want to consider:

• Effective networking is a two-way street
• Understand what you have to offer
• Know your boundaries
• Don’t collect business cards just to do so
• Ask questions and listen to hear the passions goals or interest finding a common ground
• More important follow up afterward
• Don’t go in asking are you hiring this is an immediate put off
• Don’t expect immediate connections

Networking Tips

• Be honest making eye contract
• Project confidence
• Focus on common interest
• Don’t wait until you need something to build a relationship
• Follow up

Suggestion: Belong to or attend at least four professional and/or community networking events. Be active in at least two.  Avoid labels and titles explain what you do.  Thank the networking partner and look for ways to reconnect.  Showing up is half the battle.

Join us “Networking with A Purpose “on March 25, 2023 

Go to our website www.theonebes.com click on events and get your ticket!