What You Need To Know To Become A Networking Guru!

Networking Guru! It is a common misconception that networking is just about going to networking events and meeting people.

You will want to build up trust by being genuine and helpful. You also want to help others. Here are some tips to help you become a networking guru.

Good business networking is about getting to know like minded individuals who will become walking advertisements for your business

It is important to be a genuine person and to build up trust.

 

If you are attending :

1. If you are attending a networking meeting, you should always know what you want to get out of the event before attending. This will help you to select the right groups or associations for you.

2. Asking open-ended questions during a networking conversation can open the conversation and show the listeners that you are interested. Avoid questions that require a simple yes or no response.

3. Get in the habit of being a walking resource centre. When people ask you questions, or you hear a name of a person, make sure to remember it. That way, you are always at their “top of mind”.

You can’t help but think

4. You can’t help but think of that one time in your life when you are stuck in an elevator with a stranger and have to give a canned response. I believe it is a universal truth that we all get stuck in elevators with strangers and as such it is very important to practice your elevator speech. The key to a good elevator speech is to be genuine and to be yourself. Practice and you will be ready for the day when you get stuck in an elevator with a stranger.

5. If you are not sure about your ice-breaking topic, have a back-up topic you can use.

6. If you are meeting someone for the first time, do not just hand them your business card. First get to know them, their business, and their needs.

7. Always follow up with your new contacts to let them know you enjoyed meeting them. If possible, mention something more personal such as I hope you enjoyed that movie you were going to see that night. People will form a trust with you.

8. Your referrals are your lifeline. Respect and honor their trust and your referrals will grow exponentially.