Entrepreneurship & Business

Build your network

“Connect yourself with people, talk to them, invest time in meeting new people, seek their advice on matters and you are expanding your network.”

Networking means expanding your world by connecting with people to share information and develop mutually beneficial relationships. Building and maintaining good business and personal networks can help you to maximize the opportunities that come your way. Therefore, it is important to invest your time in learning how to develop and leverage your network.

WHERE CAN YOU NETWORK?

Virtually everywhere: formal networking events, continuing education classes, professional associations, conferences, seminars, fund raisers, social gatherings, sports events or other functions, all present opportunities to meet new people and build your network.

PREPARE YOURSELF FOR NETWORKING?

• Create a plan in terms of what kind of people you want to meet and where you will find such people.
• Identify how much time you can invest in developing your network.
• Become proactive and look for opportunities around you.
• Avoid the temptation to hang out with people you already know.
• Attend programmes where you can meet new people.

TIPS TO DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN A CONTACT

• When you meet someone introduce yourself in a pleasant and friendly manner.
• Carry your business card and present it after you have established a rapport.
• Get into a conversation and ensure you don’t do all the talking, get the other person to talk about himself.
• Establish a good rapport with the person and avoid being pushy.
• If you get an opportunity to offer support, then do it without any expectations.
• Nurture the new relationship by following up in some way that makes you stand out in the crowd.

Keep in touch by exchanging email, having an occasional chat, enquire about work and then ask questions which can perhaps lead you to a business opportunity.

TIPS TO ACKNOWLEDGE A CONTACT

• When a contact passes on a lead to you, promptly follow it up and update him on the outcome.
• If the lead converts into business, do acknowledge the person for his support. A thank you card, an email, a Don’t expect miracles with every lead; be patient and stay thankful even if the lead does not translate into business.

Maintain a genuine and honest relationship with your contacts. Networking is a two-way process, so, be generous and willing to give in order to receive.

Have faith in the power of networking, you will be surprised by the number of jobs and opportunities that will come your way. Try it; it works.