5 Networking Top Tips

Posted: 11^th May 2015

Barbara Lyndley gives her top tips on how to be an effective networker

1. What are you looking for?

Be clear about what you want to achieve, whether it’s gathering information, meeting new people who may be helpful to your business, talking to prospective clients and customers, or all of these.

2. Preparation, preparation, preparation!

The three most important things to do before attending any networking event!

• Approach the event with the right attitude. A negative attitude is likely to attract negativity.
• Prepare a one-minute ‘elevator pitch’ about yourself and your product/service.
• Plan your questions in advance, so you ask the things you really want to know.

3. Be a good listener…and relax

Really listen to others. This makes them feel valued. they will remember you and want to connect with you, which means thay will tell others about you, too.  Also if you focus on the other person it really helps to relax you; it will take away the self-consciousness and fear of meeting new people.

4. At the event

Take plenty of business cards. As you hand one over, tell the other person what you are going to do – ‘I will send you some information about…’, or…’I will give you a call and we can arrange to meet.’ Take their card and make sure you write a note on it to remind you what you said you would do for them.

5. Always follow up

If you have promised to call or send something ensure you do this within 24 hours, if possible. Set aside time in your diary after the event to review, take action, phone people, make notes, diary follow up calls…and so on.