NETWORKING TIPS

Networking 101
by Hunter Golden
Owner, Write Stuff Copywriting

Here, we'll talk about Networking basics: What to look for in a group and the kind of things you should always be looking to do, no matter the organization, demographic or need. Hopefully, you'll find basic tips to help you get yourself out there and shine no matter the circumstances!

Be Genuine: Sure, we all want to make money and create business. At the end of the day, it’s why you're networking in the first place. But be genuine. Givers always get. Be authentic, build relationships and trust. You're in business because you feel that you offer a service or skill that can HELP OTHERS. If you're there to help someone else, they'll be there for you.

Attend Events Put on By Lots of Different Groups: I strongly recommend checking out as many local networking groups as you can. There's a purpose to it as well. Listen to the tone people use with each other. Are they friendly and supportive of the group and each other? Is there competent leadership? Usually, you can get away with attending two events before joining.

Volunteer! I love volunteering. It’s an easy way to give back and in my line of work (copywriting), it’s a free portfolio piece! It allows you to stay visible, involved and invested in your organization. It’s great to get your name out as well as a wonderful place show off your skill!

Plug EM In! Introduce people to other people. If you are a resource to others, they'll turn to you for suggestions, ideas, and names of other people and maybe even give you some business! It keeps you visible to other people and again, helps you help others.

Know What You Do, Why You Do It, For Whom, and What Makes Your Doing it So Much Better! It’s important to stand out from the pack. However, it’s equally important not to 'sell' yourself. You're not there to 'close' a deal. It is important however, to be able to communicate what you're all about in a clear, concise way. If you can communicate the basics of you and what you bring to the table effectively, it won't be bragging and you should sell yourself or your business. Don't embellish accomplishments, etc. It’s always OK to bring up interesting things you've done. I love trading war stories. Just don't make them out to be more than they really are. Not only is it dishonest, but people can smell it a mile away.

Know How Others Can Help You: What would you say if someone asked you 'how can I be helpful?'. Tell them. Life is all about give and take. Let people know what they can do for you.

Follow Up: The most important thing you can do is follow up. Send the person an email. I wouldn't recommend bothering them over the phone, but email is friendly but not intrusive. I also like doing this because it serves as some re-enforcement. I'm HORRIBLE with names. In fact I'm so bad, that I'll forget it the second after you've introduced yourself. For whatever reason, writing an email is just more name repetition and it sticks. It works for me, and it may work for you.

Connect with Like-Minded People: Once you've followed up, try and connect with those in similar industries so you can share ideas. More often than not, even if you're in the same industry, you'll have different areas of specialization. You should both use that to your advantage. It’s a great opportunity to collaborate and help each other out and maybe even make some money doing it!

Thank People: I haven't met a single person in my life that’s set up their own business and magically made money. In the real world, you need others to help you get to where you want to go. It may not be immediate and it won't happen overnight, but those are the people who help get you places. Thank them and always reciprocate.

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