The 5 C’s of business networking
What is the best way to market your small business? The best results come mainly from face-to-face business networking. As an enthusiastic and highly successful networking expert, this form of marketing has been featured in several articles I’ve written about B2B information. However, within networks, like all parts of business, change happens and you can always learn new ways to become increasingly effective in the way you deliver your message.
So, to honor my favorite form of marketing, here are the 5 C’s of networking to help you achieve greater success:
C is for Create. Create opportunities. I eat? Think about how you start a conversation with a new connection at an event. What do you usually ask: “What do you do?” Aren’t you totally bored with this overused network chat line? The next time you’re interacting with a new business owner at an event, why not open the conversation with this: “Tell me about your business…” or “What challenges are you facing right now/” What success stories? Recent can you share? ?” These exchanges create opportunities to explore further, giving you the chance to learn more about how you can position your trading solution.
C is for consistency. The saying, “out of sight, out of mind” rings true when it comes to networking. People who appear once or only occasionally risk being quickly forgotten and/or may be seen as unreliable social networks. It is true that not all styles of networking meet with the personal choice of an individual. However, successful networking is built on strong, trusted relationships, which equals consistency. Good relationships take time and effort to develop and grow. Wait once and expect instant results? You got to be kidding!
C is for collaboration. Two heads are often better than one, so they say. Once you’ve established yourself in one or more networking groups that meet your goals, it’s a positive step to explore potential collaborative partnerships. Consider linking up with other people doing what you do, perhaps with a different inclination/experience. Collaborations are ideal for expanding thinking, bolstering support and motivation, and enhancing potential job opportunities.
C is for choice. One of my favorite things about being freelance is the fact that it’s my choice who I connect with and who I work with, and it’s my choice as to how often and when I connect. Choice allows you to be selective and gives you a freedom that an employed network professional typically does not have.
C is for connector. With networking as my primary focus for marketing my services, one thing I’ve learned is to see networking as an opportunity to connect others. However, rather than adopting a “selfish” attitude, have a strategy for what you want to accomplish, think broadly when you talk to people, and consider how you can connect them with other business owners you know. When you are known as a successful connector, people will flock to you and respect you for your knowledge, support, and experience.
