A Very Personal Network
What is a personal network, and why would I want one? That is the question that is often pondered, but not always asked, by those seeking to build a business and a reputation for their products and services. For many people who are in bricks and mortar businesses, the idea of networking online can seem like a rather strange and maybe even ridiculous idea. I sell to my local customers, why would I need to have a website, or to network online? Here are some answers to both of these questions, and some ideas to get you started in online and face-to-face networking.
Networking What Is It?
Networking begins as basic communication between people who share an interest in each other and their business, for the purpose of advancing opportunities for each of those who participate in the network.
Networking – What It Isn’t
While many people attend networking events, just showing up and handing out business cards to people you don’t know, and who know nothing about you, is not networking. While many of us would like to help others, sometimes we don’t make it easy for them. One of the simplest ways that we can do that is to have a very clear and precise description for when we are asked the question… What do you do?
How Networking Can Help You
Networking is a way of extending your reach, so that as many people in your market, as possible, can know your products or services. It can help you develop new business, but it can also help you meet people who can become important to your business and personal growth in many ways.
The person, who is in business but serving a different market than yours, can turn out to be friends with someone who could become your largest customer, or your best supplier or your inspiration for a new line in your business. The person, who is just a fast food restaurant owner, may introduce you to one of his patrons, who needs just what you provide. We cannot know who will be uncovered in the process of networking. And looks can be deceiving; so don’t be too hasty to make judgments!
None of these opportunities can or will open up for you, without first taking the steps to build your network. As you nurture your relationships within the network, opportunities can come. In establishing those ties, it is important that you communicate what it is that you do, and to be clear in the values that are important to you, so that those with similar values will seek you out. No surprises. If you are a person of your word, that will show in all of your dealings with customers, as it will with your network members. This is the basis of your social capital, and it is this asset, that networking will grow from.
You need to have a clear and concise statement about what your products or service provides that is compelling and generates a response from the prospect of “Tell me more”.
Some Great Places To Network
Find out what networking opportunities are available in your local area. Business networks, Chambers of Commerce, service clubs, all these and more are available in each location.
Remember to:
- Nurture the people in your network.
- Be interested in what they do, and how they do it.
- Give first!
- Know what you do, and have a well-rehearsed short description to use when asked.
- Program your networking activities and follow-through routine.
- Do what you say you will do and when you will do it.
- Use the services of your network where and when you can.
- Recommend the services of members of your network when you learn of an opportunity that might match.
- Treat the people you are referred to as a VIP even if you do no business on this occasion. And always edify and speak well of the person by whom they were referred.
- Treat those who refer business to you as a VIP and report back when you get a referral, to let them know what happened.
Online Networking
There are many social networking groups for business now, online. Check out LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and others and add your profile and grow your connections via these sites. You can also respond to postings from blogs or social media sites by adding comments or reposting the information.
In Conclusion
Networking begins as a community of people relating to each other as people, and sharing a common purpose. In establishing your network, it becomes your responsibility to nurture that network. Understand the difference between worthwhile valuable information and spam when you contact members.
Think about how you can add value, not just for your clients, but for your networking partners as well. Be the example of what you would like them to be and remember that they are all deserving of your respect. Be grateful for the referrals you receive from your network. Recognize the value that each brings to your network and reward good behavior. Share items that are of particular interest to individuals. Know the individuals well enough to be able to notice items that would interest them. The value of your personal network will be a direct reflection of the value you place on it and the commitment you make to create it.
Steven J. Beaman is the founder & principal owner of BCSG, LLC, a general business consultancy and coaching organization whose primary focus is independent professionals and small businesses. Steven helps businesses to determine the constraints that are causing them to become stagnant or unproductive. He also assists start-up businesses to determine the roadblocks or obstacles that they may not have perceived. He also guides organizations through the start-up process, rapid business growth, or a turnaround situation. He does this using his wealth of management experience gathered during his over 35 year career of managing a variety of business functions in both small and medium businesses. He has expertise in numerous types of businesses (for profit and non-profit).
Link to BCSG, LLC is http://www.bcs-mn.com
