Top tips to network like a pro
Any seasoned business leader will tell you that networking is crucial to growth and success. But that networking involves more than collecting business cards and shaking a hand or two. Real networking is about building genuine relationships that last, prosper, and expand opportunities for everyone involved. Here are some top tips to help you build your network and boost your business in the real world.
Networking Helps You Grow
It’s not always easy to strike up a conversation with a stranger, but networking, even passively, can have some big benefits. These include expanded opportunities (opening doors to new clients and investors), knowledge sharing that helps you stay ahead of the curve and your competition, as well as future help with problem solving and crisis management.
Join Your Local Chamber of Commerce
When you join your city’s chamber of commerce, you’re getting access to special networking events, along with opportunities to meet and interact with other business leaders. After joining your local chamber, consider adding your business to nearby chambers as well. The added opportunities could open up new doors for success.
Attend Industry Conferences and Trade Shows
According to the Small Business Association (SBA), attending conferences and trade shows for your industry can help you meet like-minded business leaders and team up with other businesses.
Volunteer in Your Community
Getting involved in local community fundraisers, activities, and even politics can help you meet new people and access new avenues for potential profit. This can also include sponsoring local youth sports teams, as well as paying your employees by the hour (up to set maximum per month) to volunteer for specific non-profits.
Set Networking Goals
As a business professional, you set goals all the time. Networking should be no different. Instead of just showing up at an event, shaking some hands, and going home with a few leads, set a specific, attainable, and trackable goal. Make a point to talk to 12 people, solidify six new relationships, and make plans for a lunch or one-on-one meeting with at least two new contacts.
Listen Carefully
We all know that listening is the secret to interpersonal communication. While networking is an exciting opportunity to tell others about what you do, what you sell, what you make, or how you and your company work, listen more than you talk. You could be surprised by how much you can learn from other leaders in your industry or community.
Check Out Local Networking Opportunities
- Albany Area Chamber of Commerce (albanychamber.com) hosts 80+ networking events a year in addition to leadership programs and business development forums and seminars.
- Salem Area Chamber of Commerce (salemchamber.org) boasts more than 40,000 members throughout Marion and Polk counties. Imagine the possibilities.
- Bend Chamber of Commerce (bendchamber.org) helps build business relationships with many events that facilitate connections and opportunities.
- Newport Chamber of Commerce (newportchamber.org) can introduce you to more than 400 local businesses, organizations, and individuals who are all focused on business success in the region.
Let’s Talk Businesses
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