Networking and building relationships in business.
Networking and building relationships isn’t a sales pitch.
It’s about making valuable professional connections that grow over time; think of it as a chance to meet new friends.
There are several things to consider when you’re attending a networking event, virtual or online:
If you are going to present, you must prepare and think about what your audience is looking to get from your presentation.
You will benefit from setting a clear, easy-to-follow objective, being clear on what you want, and structuring your presentation to meet that outcome.
Ask yourself beforehand what your goals are in going to networking meetings.
Once you find a group that you like, stick with it and be consistent. You'll get to know more about the other members, and they'll remember you, too.
Have a clear understanding of what you do and why you’re different from the competition.
Don’t just deliver what you want to say and miss what your audience wants to hear.
You wouldn’t tell your audience about printing a brochure if they had come to hear you talk about how you design a logo.
Listen when others are talking; do your best to be a sponge and soak up what they say.
Try to relax, and when you’re presenting, leave a pause in between sentences – it gives the listener time to digest what you said.
Smile, relax and be yourself. You’ll be amazed at how people will be drawn to you.
The more you learn about someone, the more likely you are to remember them and build a real connection.
Try to maintain eye contact. If you’re in a Zoom meeting, remember to look at the camera when you speak.
By maintaining eye contact, you can build rapport, and try not to keep looking around the room or screen.
Make sure your camera is adjusted to the right viewpoint; not everyone wants to see up your nose.
How you dress is personal, but what you wear in front of an audience says a lot about you, so make sure it sends the right message for your industry. If you’re a plumber, you wouldn’t go networking in a suit; likewise, if you’re a financial adviser, you probably wouldn’t wear jeans and a T-shirt.
End your presentation with your name and company, and also try to have a memory hook or strapline.
Thank you for reading. I’m Darren, a graphic designer helping small and micro businesses to stand out from the herd – just like the purple cow I use in my branding.
Do you have more networking tips to share? Send me a message.
