For some lucky people, the career ladder is like an escalator, carrying them quickly and effortlessly to the top, while for others it’s more of a greasy pole as they struggle to even get a foot off the floor. But there’s no mystery behind who gets promoted – all that’s needed is a bit of self-PR and a can-do attitude. (more…)

If you’re just starting out in business, you’ve probably already been told by a number of people that Networking is an essential activity to get involved in. It’s a great piece of advice and, even though it might fill you with absolute dread, it will provide a huge number of business contacts. Whilst not all of these will be directly relevant to you and your own business, referrals to third parties happen all the time and this really is the whole point to getting involved in Networking.

One of things I knew I had to face up to when starting out on my own was the fact that I’d have to put myself out and about on the Networking circuit. I can tell you that, out of all the hurdles associated with setting up a new business, the Networking hurdle was my most feared. I’m not a natural Sales Person but I am a natural talker - and the more events I’ve attended, the more I’ve realised that being able to talk is the only skill you need. Oh yes, and a stack of business cards!

In order to survive as a Networking Newbie, I’d recommend the following tips:

SMILE !!
Even if you’re feeling completely overwhelmed, wear a smile. It will attract other people towards you and instantly boost your confidence.

Approach other people standing on their own.
Remember - you’re not the only one feeling awkward. Plenty of others are more than likely to be as nervous as you are.

Extend a firm handshake.
It gives the impression that you’re confident and comfortable in the situation and you definitely mean business.

Always try and ask about your new contact first.
This will demonstrate that you’re not a selfish Networker because you’re showing that you’re more interested in the other person than in talking about yourself. Essential Networking Etiquette!

Be a good listener.
Even if you’re talking to someone whose business is of no direct relevance to your own, appreciate that you’re all there for the same reason. Who knows - you might know someone….. who knows someone ….. who needs their details.

Keep your own business statement brief.
Accompany your verbal statement with your business card and direct people to your website for more detailed information. Keeping it brief at the beginning enables others to ask specific questions which you can then answer in as much depth as is required.

Be polite and honest.
You will make a good impression with many new contacts because they remember your friendly personality and honesty first and foremost.

Acknowledge the contacts you’ve made.
Always follow a Networking event by sending a brief two-line email to every contact you’ve made along the following lines: “nice to meet you, added your details to my database, hope to see you at future events”. Nothing more is needed - unless, of course, potential business was discussed at the event prompting a more detailed message or even a phone call.

So, all in all, it doesn’t have to be that scary. By implementing some - if not all - of the above tips, you can actually look forward to attending future Networking events free from all those unnecessary anxieties.

Now, what are you waiting for? Go on, give it a go!

AUTHOR: Helen Byrne
Helen Byrne is a UK-based Virtual PA and she established http://www.PA-as-you-go.com to promote the Virtual Assistant industry in the UK and to provide businesses with a refreshingly flexible and cost effective alternative to employing support personnel full time.

Business networking is the process of establishing a mutually beneficial relationship with other business people and potential clients and/or customers, it’s quite simply the art of relationship-building. Although this type of networking is a little more focused and deliberate than the kinds of networking one does in other aspects of life.

Why And How To Network

Probably the most important part of networking is making a lasting impression, networking is less about meeting new people than having them remember you after the fact. In spite of the growing use of technology and the Internet, people still do business with people. Networking is the best way to meet new people and build those relationships that turn into repeat sales and referrals, it’s a long-term business development strategy.

The key to good business networking is the establishment of a mutually beneficial relationship, and that’s an incredibly rare occurrence at the standard shake hands and exchange your business card events that are touted as business networking “opportunities”.

Countless times I have been to these events and have seen people actually dash from person to person, with the expectations of giving away their card and not even hoping to gather the other person’s in return.

Unfortunately, people have lost their innate ability to connect (hence the bad networking) and but if you are willing to take a chance and set yourself apart from the rest of the herd, you can make some great connections and truly develop your business.

You can cultivate a network of endless referrals by not thinking of “networking” as something you go to “networking events” to do, make it an integral part of your everyday business promotions. Aim to create and nurture quality relationships. Keep in mind that networking is

about being genuine and authentic, building trust and relationships, and seeing how you can help others.

More Benefits Of Networking

Looking back, any investment of my time in those extra-work activities have had a dramatic return-on-investment in terms of the people I met and got to work with.

Something that is often over looked is that networking is a more cost-effective method of generating new business than advertising or public relations efforts.

Business networking provides you with invaluable contacts that give your company a dramatic boost, regardless of size or turnover, nurturing cooperative relationships with other specialized companies is an effective way to optimise your complementary skills and at the same time, maintain a degree of flexibility that is required in this increasingly competitive global marketplace.