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"Networking
is . . . using your creative talents to help others achieve
their goals as you cultivate a network of people strategically
positioned to support you in your goals. . . expecting
nothing in return! "
Following
are a number of best practices related to networking. We
hope that before you leave your home or office for yet another
event you will review the tips below. We consider the tips
to represent best practices when networking and wish you
luck.
Networking
in action: Your pre-work
- Identify
upcoming events that
you will attend and record the activities you will do to
prepare for the event, as well as behaviors you will avoid.
Make sure to track your results!
- Define
what makes you unique- traits
and characteristics that differentiate you from other
professionals offering the same services
- Record
the final version of your Elevator Speech - the
unique value you bring to your clients, not just a laundry
list of services you offer
- Identify
those who have referred business to you in
the past - what do they have in common?
Networking
in action: At the event
- Arrive
a few minutes early and
introduce yourself to other early-arrivers and to the event
organizers; scan the nametags on the registration table
to see if there is someone planning to attend whom you'd
like to meet
- Listen
and ask good questions - to
build trust and possibly to discover a need; look for
ways YOU can help THEM - introductions you can make;
articles you can send...
- When
appropriate, deliver your Elevator Speech - a
short, concise, benefits-focused message about the value
you bring to your clients
- Ask
for business cards ;
after the event, record details on the back of the card
so you don't forget important facts
- Sit
with and talk to people you don't know - this
can be challenging, particularly after a long day in the
office
- Stay
for the whole event - pre-and
post-event time represent the best networking
time
Networking
in Action: Your referral sources
- Identify
opportunities to
be where your referral sources are - and remember to be
mindful of networking opportunities wherever you are
- Pick
a trade, industry or professional association that
attracts prospective clients, and consider joining
Networking
in Action: Your goals
- Set
some networking goals for yourself - what do you want to
accomplish in 2006 related to your continued efforts to
build relationships?
- Take
action!
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