Tips for Networking Effectively this Summer.

Being Authentic

Genuine interactions foster trust. Approach networking with a sincere attitude and connect with others on a personal level. Authentic communication can result in deeper connections that benefit all parties involved. In general, you are looking to bear in mind that your authenticity has a lot to do with the impression you’d like people to think about you and in doing business with you.

At some point a natural behaviour for you might be great and realistic yet a great reason to avoid you at networking. Observe and check for feedback. Being reasonable and considerate can go along way of building an authentic and long-term opportunity.

Be a Person of  Value First

Networking should be two-sided. Make an effort to provide value to your connections by sharing your insights or experiences. For example, if you know of a relevant webinar, send the link to your contacts. Remember, relationships built on reciprocity lead to more opportunities down the road. There are plenty of networking you can attend in and around your area of business.

Some travel a long way to find one. However, going for the sale and appear to be pestering people to buy your products can potentially shut few doors for you from the word go. At BforB we aim to educate people how to refer us and genuinely offer support with the view to building long term collaborations and referrals or introductions.

It can sound like everyone heard about it from somewhere before yet in practice it is still very much rampant in the arena. Be different.

Be Open to New Connections

Every new person you meet can connect you to broader opportunities. Keep an open mind, and don't limit your networking to those in your immediate profession or area of interest. Diverse connections can spark creativity and lead to unexpected opportunities.

A while ago we had a ‘Manned Security Company’ attend our meeting. He was disappointed that in the room a bank manager, carpet company, telecoms company, mortgage broker, IFA, lawyers and the like were sat around; his target market are supermarket owners and Manchester Airport as I recall. He stood up made his introduction and then finally said the room wasn’t his market. The bank manager of which he was sat with then said his goodbye and said; ‘My wife is the HR Manager in the airport, would she be the one you’d like to speak with”?  He replied, yes! Bank manager then replied, shame you we’re just leaving, aren’t you?

 We've shared this story many times over to help other avoid the potential loss business when it comes to closed mindset and assumptions. Look at being curios and be ready to learn as networking behaviour.

BforB Annual Awards Event