The most important part of your business is your connections. How you make those connections can mean the difference between running a successful business or one that fails……
Here are four mistakes that people make when networking……
Talking to the same people
For some, striking up a conversation with a stranger can be intimidating. Don’t let fear get in the way of making connections with those that matter. It’s time to step outside your comfort zone and take a chance.
When you attend a networking event, at least half of your time should be spent meeting and talking to new people.
Not helping others
Networking well means helping others connect. The quickest way to be seen as someone who adds value to a relationship is to help someone else make a connection. Most salespeople spend way to much time trying to push their products and not enough time helping others.
Talking about yourself
If your short-term goal is to make a sale, then go ahead and talk about yourself (just don’t be surprised when you never hear from that person again!).
If your goal is to have a long-term relationship, a long-term client and a long-term friend, then you need to take a genuine interest in the people you are trying to connect with. The best way to connect with someone is to ask questions and listen.
Not Following Up
Following up is more important than the initial contact. Unfortunately it’s also the most overlooked part of networking. If you want to be remembered, you need to follow-up with the people that you meet.
