Episode #28 Networking your Business (and You) Without Getting Entangled in the Net

Do you struggle with business networking?  Do you walk into a room full of business prospects and immediately go to the bar and then hide in the corner?  Would you like to start a networking event but don’t know where to start?  Listen to Rick’s story about his conversation with a well-known actor over twenty years ago that changed the way he networks at events.  Join Brandon and Rick for some tips that will help start your networking.

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1. Setting up a networking event
   1. Coordinate and allow plenty of time to present the event
      1. If you have a committee that must meet, use Doodle.com to schedule your meetings or conference calls.
      2. Use social networking and contact lists to promote it.
      3. Think of an event which allows people to interact.
         1. Workshop type
      4. Give something back to the participants while allowing them to meet people.
      5. Invite industries that complement each other.
   2.  Logistics
      1. Check out local restaurants. Negotiate a fixed price; maybe a discount on drinks.
      2. Depending on you industry, do not be extravagant. You are not trying to impress clients, but build relationships. If you are the hub of these relationships, you win.
      3. Be the ringleader and network your business prowess, but not aggressively or obnoxiously.
   3. Use social networking to follow up after to thank your attendees and maybe give something else to your attendees.

2. Participant: Starting off in a new location
   1. Facebook and LinkedIn
   2. Find and contact people
   3. Attend Events
   4. Start your own Group
3. Participant: When at an event
   1. Pick you events wisely
   2. Network primarily at events that have potential customers, not colleagues in your own industry.
   3. If you join a group that charges for membership, do a cost/benefit analysis
   4. If you are in sales you may use a software to keep track of contacts.
   5. Use the VCP Process in converting your networking to dollars.
      1. Visibility
      2. Credibility
      3. Profitability
   6. Provide your contacts with free knowledge (or tools) that can benefit them.
   7. When meeting someone:
      1. Keep conversations short so you can meet others
      2. Look people in the eye and focus on what they are saying
      3. Don’t dwell on yourself, except to convey your elevator speech. Find the rhythm of the conversation as to the subject matter.
      4. Talk about the other person and learn their passions and expertise.  Write notes on his/her card.

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