There is some debate among entrepreneurs about the best way to network. Is it best to network online? In formal networking organizations? At business associations? In charitable organizations? At the gym? On your kid’s soccer field? At the dinner table?
The short answer is yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, and yes!
The long answer is a bit more complicated. Most entrepreneurs fall into one of two camps – they are either too shy to talk about their business or too enthusiastic to talk about anything else. Either extreme will be detrimental to your networking success. The following rules will help you strike the appropriate balance.
Networking Rule#1 – People want to do business with people they know, like and trust. Focus on building a relationship with others instead of immediately trying to sell them something.
Networking Rule#2 – It’s not about you. It’s about what you can do for them. Focus first on helping others and building good will. Don’t evaluate everyone’s worth by what you think they can do for you.
Networking Rule#3 – Develop relationships for the long-term. Networking is not a short-term strategy. The payoff builds gradually over time. Instant connections are rare – appreciate them when they come but don’t focus on quick wins.
Networking Rule#4 – Follow up. Many people focus all their energy on making connections and forget to spend time nurturing and maintaining relationships. Develop a system for staying in touch with those you meet.
If you follow the above rules, you will find yourself in situations in which you can naturally talk about your business without it sounding artificial or mercenary. If you express genuine interest in others, they will feel genuine interest in you in return. If you try to help them, they will try to help you. And you will naturally find the balance between talking too little and talking too much about your business.
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