I recently came across a random Twitter poll asking entrepreneurs if strategy, networking or learning is important to their business. I voted for learning because it has always been one of my best resources. But the network was voted the most, more than learning and strategy. This isn’t the first time I’ve seen other entrepreneurs say that networking is one of the most important parts of their business. Of course, fixing networks was something I had worked on before.
I wonder why networks play such an important role in business. The answer is that your relationships with your customers are paramount to your success. Even if they don’t buy your products or buy your business plan, the connection you make will come in handy someday. Therefore, entrepreneurs must be better networkers.
The secret to better networking is an interest in meeting new people and developing relationships. Whether you are supporting your business or looking for friends, you must be ready to meet new people and build good relationships. Connecting with college friends and old colleagues and starting a conversation at a meeting while respecting their interests and boundaries can help your business.
Read this article to learn the best ways to get better at networking.
1. Know What You Offer
When networking, don’t just focus on the benefits, it’s what it offers you. Instead, know exactly what you have to offer the web. Why should they buy your products, join your network or refer your business to others? It should have something in their favor. These can be products they want and need, profitable business opportunities, referrals and more. Know what connecting with you can give them. Focus it as much as you understand how important their support is to your business.
2. Create an Action Plan
Create an action plan that focuses on networking. Make a list of people you want to meet. At the same time, focus on your target audience and be sure to tell everyone about the opportunity your company offers. Networking works best when you meet people in person. But more online networks have been developed since the pandemic. Your roadmap should include opportunities online and in person.
3. Connect with Like-Minded People
No matter how many people you meet, you will achieve good results only if you meet like-minded people. While building relationships with many people can help you at some point, it is important that you focus on people who share the same interests as you. The business opportunity offered by direct selling seems attractive to a person with entrepreneurial dreams and business knowledge. So, to boost your network growth, it is better to focus on like-minded people.
4. Keep in Touch with People
Even if the people you meet or interact with do not support your business, remember to keep in touch with them. First of all, there is no need to feel bad because people are not interested in business from the first conversation. Second, people can change their minds or be interested in a business opportunity at any time. Of course, the relationship you’ve built shouldn’t end just because they’re not interested in the business. A better networker maintains the value of the relationship regardless of whether they show interest in the business or not.
5. Networking is About Others, Not You
Networking should be about customers and clients, not you. As I said, networking should offer something of value to your potential clients. Networking should be beneficial for you and them. It’s good to treat customers like a boss. So when you build your network, make sure the business is a support and service for them, not just an opportunity to make a profit for you.
6. Don’t Remove Anyone from the Network
Although we consider target audience important in networking, it is important to make valuable connections. Someday, if you want to expand your business and attract new customers, it can help. An entrepreneurial attitude is genuine when the customer is focused but interested in making connections. So don’t cross anyone off the list. The more connections you have, the better your business will be.
Customers and your relationship with them can contribute to your success. I’m sure I’ve learned a thing or two writing this article. I need to work harder to become a better networker. Coping with difficult stages is possible if we have support from customers and target customers.
