4 Helpful Business Networking Tips
Have you tried networking for your business only to return home with no new connections? Sometimes networking can make people nervous and feel shy about approaching strangers. But don't worry, everyone else at the event is there for the same purpose... Meet new people and connect with other like-minded businesses! Lake of the Ozarks West Chamber of Commerce has several tips to help you get started and feel more comfortable at your next networking event. Read on to learn more, and make sure you join the Lake West Chamber for more networking opportunities!
Before you head out to a networking event, create a strategy for yourself. Knowing what you want to accomplish can set you up for more success than walking in without a plan. Maybe you are looking for a business that can help yours improve. For instance, you may need to find a company that can design a new logo for your business or someone to update your website. Maybe you are just getting started and want to meet other local businesses for advice. Whatever your needs, set specific goals for yourself to help keep you on track. Example: Connect and exchange cards with at least three other businesses.
It is expected that you have business cards with you at a networking event. "Do you have a business card?" is a very common question. You may be concerned that your logo hasn't been perfected yet, or that a physical address hasn't been established. Don't worry! There are several options available that allow you to print a simple business card with your business name and contact information. Order a small amount to help you get started connecting with people. You can always improve on them and order new ones when you're ready.
It can be tempting to stick with the same group of people you always interact with, but that can defeat the purpose of the event. Grab just one partner that you are comfortable with and work your way around the room to meet new people. Seek out people you haven't seen before, or people you haven't interacted with on a one-to-one basis. A simple way to introduce yourself is to say, "I'm (name) with (business). I don't think we've had the chance to connect yet. How are you?" This is a natural way to lead to deeper personal and business conversations without feeling too forced.
Small talk seems to be a lost art in the digital age, but it's as simple as asking genuine questions and then listening well. You don't have to dive into someone's business right away. Ask them if they're originally from the area, ask what made them move to where they are now, etc. Asking personal questions can make people feel more at ease and less like they have to go into a sales pitch for their business right away.
Lake West Chamber provides several great opportunities to network with other businesses in the area and a lot of other great benefits to our members. Join the Chamber and take advantage of online membership directory listings, ribbon-cuttings, media offers, referrals, email blasts, socials, and more! Learn more by checking our website and the business member benefits.
1) Set a Goal
Before you head out to a networking event, create a strategy for yourself. Knowing what you want to accomplish can set you up for more success than walking in without a plan. Maybe you are looking for a business that can help yours improve. For instance, you may need to find a company that can design a new logo for your business or someone to update your website. Maybe you are just getting started and want to meet other local businesses for advice. Whatever your needs, set specific goals for yourself to help keep you on track. Example: Connect and exchange cards with at least three other businesses.
2) Have Business Cards Ready
It is expected that you have business cards with you at a networking event. "Do you have a business card?" is a very common question. You may be concerned that your logo hasn't been perfected yet, or that a physical address hasn't been established. Don't worry! There are several options available that allow you to print a simple business card with your business name and contact information. Order a small amount to help you get started connecting with people. You can always improve on them and order new ones when you're ready.
3) Look for New People
It can be tempting to stick with the same group of people you always interact with, but that can defeat the purpose of the event. Grab just one partner that you are comfortable with and work your way around the room to meet new people. Seek out people you haven't seen before, or people you haven't interacted with on a one-to-one basis. A simple way to introduce yourself is to say, "I'm (name) with (business). I don't think we've had the chance to connect yet. How are you?" This is a natural way to lead to deeper personal and business conversations without feeling too forced.
4) Ask Questions & Listen
Small talk seems to be a lost art in the digital age, but it's as simple as asking genuine questions and then listening well. You don't have to dive into someone's business right away. Ask them if they're originally from the area, ask what made them move to where they are now, etc. Asking personal questions can make people feel more at ease and less like they have to go into a sales pitch for their business right away.
Network with Lake West Chamber
Lake West Chamber provides several great opportunities to network with other businesses in the area and a lot of other great benefits to our members. Join the Chamber and take advantage of online membership directory listings, ribbon-cuttings, media offers, referrals, email blasts, socials, and more! Learn more by checking our website and the business member benefits.
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