Within business, it’s always good to reach as many people as possible, so you can attract new and existing clients, and gain more work for you, your company and your brand. But why is this the case, and how can this small but very important aspect of how you run your business turn you into a great entrepreneur, freelancer or boss of your company.
I’m going to be showcasing why you should be networking and building relations with others, and feature some hints and tips if your new to the game of networking.
So Why Does It Help My Company?
Networking allows you to get your company’s name out there, and receive more work from it. It doesn’t mean that one event will turn you into an overnight success, but by attending a regular event, it allows you to build relations with others who might purchase or commission work off you.
If you regularly attend an event each month, you can build these relationships and gain trust with others. Trust is one of the most important aspects of your brand, so keep this in mind at all times. But what do I mean by trust, and how can it help you?
Trust
If you build a relationship with someone which you have met several times at a networking event, you begin to see them for who they are, and gain trust in that person. They are more likely to work with you than anyone else, if they are looking for your services at that particular time.
For example, if your an Illustrator and build a close relationship with an Art Director, they are more likely to hire you than someone who has just cold emailed them about their illustration services. As this person could be anyone, and there is no trust between them.
Confidence
You may have nightmares of meeting new people and introducing yourself and your company to others, but don’t worry, this is perfectly natural. A valuable aspect of networking is how you can increase your confidence and your ability to talk about your company to absolutely anyone.
After your first couple of networking events, you begin to feel comfortable with the whole aspect of introducing yourself, and maintaining conversations with people. If you are extremely nervous about meeting new people, take it one step at a time, and don’t push yourself too hard. By taking it easy and being yourself, it allows you to be calm and relaxed, and encourages people to talk to you.
Pushing You To The Next Level
A company will probably not last long if the boss is sat by him/herself all day long, and not meeting anyone new. If your beginning to see this in yourself, you need to push yourself to the next level.
But what do I mean by the next level? This may be going to a networking event, speaking at a conference or meeting someone new. Even though this is daunting, it can be really beneficial to you as a person, and the contacts which you make during this time.
Some Tips For Networking Beginners
Chose an event location which your familiar with, like your local Sports Hall or Hotel, (if this applies), so you know exactly where to go to on the day
If there are no networking events near to where you live, make sure you know where to go on the day, and arrive there as early as possible, so your not late
Get a good insight into how the session will develop. For instance, is it just a casual chat or are you expected to talk about your company to others?
If you are expected to talk about your company to others around a group, prepare yourself to what your going to say and keep it short and simple. If this is a casual introduction, I would reframe from writing notes, as this will come across as over prepared and unnatural
Have your got any networking tips which I havn’t shown today?
When’s your next networking event, and where?
Thanks very much for listening to me today, I’ll love to hear what you have to say about networking and its benefits which it’s had on you and your company. Be sure to comment below and I’ll comment as soon as I can. Thanks very much and have a great day!
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