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Casual Discussion, Meeting Colleagues <\/p>\n
<\/fbs-accordion>getty<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
Networking is an essential skill for entrepreneurs to learn because it generates business.<\/p>\n
The term networking can become over complicated. It is simply starting and nurturing relationships which is something that humans do throughout life.<\/p>\n
It doesn\u2019t have to be difficult. Practice, repetition and following the tips below will help you build rewarding professional relationships wherever you are, whether that\u2019s at work, a seminar, a party or on a flight.<\/p>\n
Who do you want to meet and why? How many networking events will you commit to attending? Where will you go to network? How will you measure your progress? What do I want to get help with?<\/p>\n
Asking yourself these powerful questions is a great place to start. You can\u2019t hit a goal without a target, so be strategic about your time and your intentions.<\/p>\n
First impressions really do count. Before attending a networking event, think about how you will introduce yourself. Do you have an elevator pitch of around 30 seconds? If not, write and practice one. Make sure you are dressed well and feel confident in your appearance (whatever that means to you). Your personal brand also follows you online, so be mindful of how you want to show up.<\/p>\n Networking can feel scary. Introverts should find someone to attend events with to take the edge off. This tip is also very good if you know that you need help staying accountable. Having a networking partner will mean you\u2019re both more likely to show up.<\/p>\n Is anybody surprised that 75% of entrepreneurs have reported concerns for their mental health? Running a business is hard and can be a lonely road. This is not to say that you should treat networking as a free talking therapy, but be vulnerable about the problems in your industry or that you\u2019re facing in business. Vulnerability builds deeper connections more quickly, and you never know if the person you\u2019re talking to has the perfect solution to the issue that\u2019s holding you back.<\/p>\n LinkedIn is not just an online resume. It\u2019s the most suited platform for building professional relationships, so make sure to interact with content, post your own content and send direct messages. Aside from LinkedIn, you can network on every other social media platform. Attending online workshops and being active in forums are other ways to meet people who share your interests.<\/p>\n When you make a connection ask yourself two questions.<\/p>\n Openly sharing knowledge, contacts and opportunities to help others win will create a culture of generosity within the relationship. The other person will be more likely to help and introduce you to others when the time comes.<\/p>\n People tend to talk more than they listen. If you can learn to truly listen, you will gather so much information about people, the industries they are in and the professional problems they face. It is said that knowledge is power.<\/p>\n Networking doesn\u2019t start until you follow up. Aim to send a text, email or direct message within 24 hours of meeting someone. Check in with them every 3 to 6 months to further nurture the relationship.<\/p>\n Six months after attending a networking event, review the relationships that were built. You might start to notice trends such as which types of events are the most beneficial to your networking goals. From this exercise, you can tailor your networking strategy if needed.<\/p>\n Building relationships is a skill that you have already been practicing for years, so try not to feel intimidated by the word networking or by trying to \u2018do it right\u2019. The more you network, the more confident you will get.<\/p>\n Social Networking <\/p>\n <\/fbs-accordion>getty<\/small><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Networking is about establishing connections and creating a supportive community. Even if you don\u2019t have a specific product or service to promote, your presence can still contribute to engaging conversations, the exchange of ideas, and potential collaborations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\nFind A Networking Partner<\/h2>\n
Be Vulnerable<\/h2>\n
Take Advantage Of The Internet<\/h2>\n
Always Add Value<\/h2>\n
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Listen<\/h2>\n
Follow Up<\/h2>\n
Review Your Progress<\/h2>\n
Take The Pressure Off<\/h2>\n