Networking for Results: Building Relationships

If you network regularly and visit the same groups, you’ll probably see the same people quite often. Not only is this a good opportunity to build on relationships, but you can expand on your original introduction.

Talking about success stories or projects you’re currently involved in may bring to mind people they know who could be facing similar challenges.

If you go to ‘Speed Networking’ events, you often get 2 or 3 minutes to talk about your business, so it’s worth using a few case studies to reinforce your message.

But these conversations aren’t just about you. Encourage the people you speak with to tell you more about what they do. Have some questions prepared – ask them how they’ve been getting on since you last met and think about who you know who may be a good contact for them.

Comments

[LouiseBJ]

Thanks for your great comment Paul! I totally agree that working from problem to solution is so much more effective than a label.

Sorry to hear your speed networking experience was so tiring. I always find I'm hoarse afterwards from almost shouting to make myself heard!

[Paul Simister]

I've only been to one speed networking event and I was exhausted at the end of it - and I was lucky. I'd picked the side of the tables that didn't have to keep moving.

I also suggest you work from problem to solution.

Don't start with

"I'm a chiropractor"

it turns you into a commodity straight away, people will think "I know what a chiropractor does" and will stop giving you 100% attention.

Instead start with "I help people with acute pain and long term chronic pain find long lasting relief without having to become a pill junkie"

Then as Louise recommends you can move into a few concise stories about how you helped someone who hadn't been able to sleep more than three hours a night because of the constant pain...