All this talk about leveraging Facebook and Instagram for your business is just fine. But how do you get started? Here are 12 simple steps to building a quality network online and offline. And remember, QUALITY is key!
- “Networking: The exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions; specifically : the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business.” @Merriam-Webster
- Remember, is not about what you know, but WHO you know that will get you where you want in business. Networking is a powerful skill to help build the WHO you know.
- Networking takes time and effort. Here’s 3 simple steps to make your networking better.
- Networking is easy! You are likely already connected to your target market & peers. Get to work, start talking and use those connections!
- When you are creating professional connections, often you will share a target market but serve it differently.
- Looking for professional connections? Commonly missed opportunities when creating professional connections are people in the same industry but with slightly different roles.
- Establish connections with people in the same industry as you but with slightly different roles. This allows you both to receive business from the same target market. For example, a financial advisor specializing in long-term care may connect with a financial advisor specializing in medical who can refer them clients.
- Look at your community and look at professional & trade organizations to make connections
- Join smaller groups to gain connections. It can be more beneficial than large group and organizations. Smaller groups put you in direct contact with a handful of people and making creating quality relationships is easier.
- Get involved! The ABA Journal has identified ways to market your practice through getting involved in the community. Discover what you are interested in, organize an industry dinner, attend associations meetings and events!
- If you find that relationship building is hard, When to Take Relationships Offline will help you outline steps to make the process easier.
- Be strategic! Networking can be a time consuming process. Have a clear strategy and your connections will pay off!
Make it work. And it will work for you. Happy networking!