As a small to medium sized business owner, you’re probably already plenty aware of the benefits of networking.
THEY SAY… business networking is an effective low-cost marketing method for developing sales opportunities and contacts, based on referrals and introductions – either face-to-face at meetings and gatherings, or by other contact methods such as phone, text, email, and increasingly social and business networking websites.
I SAY… business networking is about building relationships “friendships” with people who get to know you and your business and once this happens they give you support and backing as your business grows. Your potential clients are not the people in your business group but rather the business will come from there friends, family and associates once they get to know you and this can take time!
QUICK TIP… From my experience making your weekly meeting part of your business routine is so important, I was speaking to one of my members she told me that she when to BNI for 7 years and only missed 3 meetings and one of those times was because she had to give birth this lady gets 5 stars in my book!! However from her showing that kind of commitment I know she is reliable a good person to refer. For other tips be sure to read my blog 5 Tips on how to be a good Business Networker. this will help you get your head around been a good networker.
What Business Networking Group is right for me?
There are many networking opportunities in New Zealand some range from casual, community or social. Maybe you are considering joining a group to help promote your product, service or better your people skills?
THE BIGGEST MISTAKES… Not treating everyone with respect sometimes they prejudge people they meet. Maybe because of the clothes or job title, however you never know where they are going to end up tomorrow down the road or who their friends are. You also don’t know the influence they may have inside the company that they work.
DON’T BE A BLEEDER… I say to our 1st time visitors, it’s not “about getting” it’s “about giving”. To be a good networker you need to show commitment and you need to put more energy in than you hope to get out! I know it takes a lot of time before I will put my name on the line and recommend anyone’s product or service. Your mission should be to build professional relationships and friendships get to know each member of your networking group on a one to one bases once you do this the referrals will naturally come.
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