Getting the Most Out of Networking

As a new business, you may wish to build a network of local business people.  The options for networking are endless!

Regardless of the type of group you join, there are a few main things to remember in order to get the most out of any meet-up.  Many of us have committed common errors in the past, particularly when new to networking.

1. Do not go with the intention of handing out lots of business cards.  Business cards contain important information, but, if you cannot connect with the recipient of your card on a higher level, your card will end up in a giant card pile, the garbage or, as a toothpick!  Instead of trying to hand out as many cards as possible, strike up a conversation with one or several people and give them a reason to want to connect with you further.  Chances are that many of the people will also be at another event.                                                                                                                                    
2. Make a meaningful connection.  Choose one or two people in the room that you would like to get to know.  Spend time chatting with each person.  Your topic does not have to be business related and the majority of conversation should not be about your business.  Make sure to give the other person time to talk.  People like to be listened to.  This is a good time to invite the person to meet for a coffee to further discuss what you both do.
3. Build a relationship.  Networking is not about how many people you can met in 2 hours, but about building relationships.  When you connect with someone on a personal level, trust is also built.  People are more likely to do business or refer people to those they know and trust.  This does not usually occur from a single conversation of under 5 minutes!  Building relationships take time but the results are well worth it!
4. Develop a Good Handshake.  How do you shake hands?  A good handshake shows confidence and strength.  Your handshake should solidly connect with the other person, be firm, but not crushing.  The recipient should know you are shaking their hand.  Ever shake hands with someone who offered a weak, barely there touch?  Did you feel this person wanted to get to know you?  Did you feel this person had confidence?  Consider this the next time you go to shake hands.  Also remember to look the person in the face for a stronger connection.
5. Smile!  A smile is worth a thousand words.  It indicates that you are open to conversation and a positive person.  When attending an event, remember to smile as often as you can as this will encourage people to want to talk with you.  Think about this when you are out - are you more attracted to locations where people are smiling or frowning?  Why?  A smile encourages others to smile and also projects happiness.  Since most people would rather be happy, they will be attracted to smiles rather than frowns.  An unhappy looking person is less likely to participate in uplifting conversation.  A smile also indicates that you  wish to communicate with others.
6. Join In.   When at an event for a first time, you may know no one and be unsure what to do.  In order to meet people, join in a group and offer input.  Smile and tell them you are new.  In no time, you will meet many people.  As you grow more confident, help others to join in.  Begin by talking to a person standing alone and help connect them to other people.  A good way to help a newcomer is to introduce them to a group as new or introduce them to someone you may know that may relate to their business.
7. Follow-up.  I must admit that I have been terrible at my own advice regarding follow-up though I am working hard to change.  Now that you have met someone, you may want to know more about them on a business or personal level (and I don't mean dating).  Perhaps something they said was particularly interesting or you share a common interest.  If you have exchanged cards, give the person a quick call or email.  It will refresh who you are in their minds - remember you both may have met many people at the event.  At the very least, look for the person at the next event and say hello.  Some people prefer to set a time for coffee in order to get to know the person better. 

Making decisions as to what type of group to participate in can also be difficult.  Some choose to participate in several group formats.  Some groups are no cost while others have a yearly cost and a per-meeting fee.  It is important to look at ROI when thinking about groups.  Spending $1,200.00 a year on a group that provides no leads or referrals is not a great return on investment, but the same $1,200.00 to participate in a group that refers lots of business (and makes you money) is well worth it!  You will also want to look at whether groups require mandatory attendance, how often they meet and whether they are the right fit for you.  Some people prefer a less structured group or a community service group.  This will depend on the individual and type of business.

Just a few options in the Barrie area:

• BNI (Business Networking International)
• Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce
• BCX (Business Connection Exchange)
• Rotary Club, Knights of Columbus and other service clubs
• Simcoe County Young Professionals
• Barrie New Entrepreneurs
• Business Connections
• PIP (Professionals in Partnership)
• Groups on Meetup.com
• various think tanks by local groups

The above list is nowhere near complete!

Hopefully, these tips will help you at your next event.  Building relationships in the community are a great way to help grow your business.