3 keys to effective results…follow the steps and build your business

So the first thing to remember when you are networking is it’s all about them, not you.

This might sound a bit strange, after all you are going out to find clients aren’t you?

Well, yes, but clients come and work with you after you have built up a relationship with them. Let’s liken it to a romantic relationship. If you went straight up to someone you fancied and asked him/her to marry you, they would run a mile!

Well it’s no different with the client/service provider relationship. Asking for the business on the first meeting would be just like asking them to marry you!
So taking it slowly and steadily to build a strong relationship is the way to go. And this is where you make it about them.

One of the easiest ways I have found to make the networking experience enjoyable (if it’s something you’re not keen on) is to imagine you are the host/hostess of the party a.k.a. networking meeting.

If you were hosting you would ensure that everyone had enough to drink and eat, you’d have a brief chat with them, introduce them to other people and generally make them feel comfortable.

As you do this you will naturally be following the 3 most effective ways of networking that yield results.

1. Referring people – again this might seem backwards, afterall aren’t you here to find clients for yourself? Stay with me here. There are 2 parts to the referral piece. First of all striking up a relationship with potential referral partners for yourself. And secondly, referring others to new contacts. Why would you do this? Well, it’s all part of the flow of giving and receiving.

Though don’t expect it to be linear ie, just because you refer someone to Jenny, she’s not necessarily going to refer someone to you. And don’t hold onto any time expectations either. Just know that as you give so you will receive. Clients and referral partners will turn up.

2. Giving them a free taster – always have an irresistible opportunity for them to enter into a relationship with you, something that requires no effort on their part. This could be your free gift on your website on your opt in page where they then become part of your community. You would have this printed on your business card or leaflet. Then as part of your community, you will build the know, like and trust as in any relationship.

3. Ask for their business card – this is an absolute must. Do not offer your business card and expect them to call you. Make sure you ask for their card and follow up within 2-3 days. Make a note on the card of something personal or the reason you want to follow up with this person to remind you later.
Follow these 3 steps and watch your business grow. Remember it’s about creating and maintaining relationships because people buy from people. And you can have fun!