Networking has almost become a dirty word. It can convey the idea of one person using another person to get ahead. However we all know that developing our network is important in business, whether it be finding new customer markets, suppliers, or business partners.
So how can we
network effectively and with a clear conscience? Here are 5 top tips:
1. Remember that networking is a two way street
If you hope to benefit from your extensive network, you must also be prepared to be of benefit to somebody else. Freely you have received, freely give. Firstly, it is good practice. Secondly, those who are of benefit to others are likely to have the largest and deepest networks. These are the people that others want to make an effort to talk to at business functions, parties and the like.2. Be open-minded
Following on from the above, it is important to be open-minded and open to various people. There is no point in being a snob when it comes to networking. You can never really immediately tell who is going to be useful to you in the future.It is very short sighted to ignore people because they do not work in your industry sector, or do not have the level of expertise you require. In 5 years time they could be the CEO of a company whose business you are hankering to have. Even if they are not, it is important to think that they might be.
It often isn’t who you know, who you know’s friend that can unlock a world of potential for you.
3. Network with a purpose
At the same time, it is a good idea to have a purpose in mind when you attend a networking function. Feel free to let everyone you know about it as well. Are you starting a new business venture? Let people know. Are you looking for a new Managing Director for your company? Are you exporting for the first time internationally? Are you looking for a new manufacturer for your product? Tell people about it. Someone is bound to know of someone who can help you further (see #2 above).4. Don’t over-think it
Remember that all networking is, is meeting people and dare I say it, making friends. It is impossible to fail at this (unless of course, you never speak to anybody). Enjoy the process and the benefits that it can bring.5. Follow up!
You have probably collected a great many business cards from attending networking events. We all have. Networking, however, is not so much about attending events, but about what you do afterwards.Remember to call the people that you promised to call, make connections that you promised to make etc. This way your network can grow from a collection of seeds into a wonderful and interconnected vine.
bravo
ReplyDeleteHelpful networking tips
ReplyDeleteSometimes I feel insecure in the midst of high flyers during a networking or similar social event. I do not think people who are more successful than I am, are willing to interact with upcoming candidates like me.
ReplyDeleteJust want to say a very big "THANK YOU!"
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely, networking is for the open minded folks, not for the introverts. Your Grand balls should also be held in other major cities like Hong Kong and Shanghai not just in London. Great respect. xx
ReplyDeleteYeah! follow up after a networking meeting is the most challenging, if we endure and keep practicing it the rewards are phenomenal, I enjoyed the last networking seminar on business etiquette especially the tips on what to do if people don't like you or are difficult to follow up. Helpful networking seminar.
ReplyDeleteYour personal advice of looking good and not wearing strong perfumes and eating garlic or strong curry before meetings has helped, 'muchas gracias',
ReplyDeleteHope to catch up with one of the December networking events. See you in London soon.
ReplyDeleteBusiness, Business, Business, This is my soul, but not to be exalted above my King and Dear Lord Jesus Christ. I am blessed to be connected to you CKB.
ReplyDeleteRemember, it is important to be open minded at networking events, but not to the extent of losing your mind. Be sensible!
ReplyDeleteExquisitely beautiful was the CK Kings and Queens meeting at the Sydney Convention Centre, wow! the spa & beauty expo was out of this world and the International jewelry fair was staggering, more business trips please.
ReplyDeleteJust a suggestion - I think the constraints of networking should be addressed seriously, there are real losers in this game. Experienced Christians must be willing to offer sound advice to the naive entrants.
ReplyDeleteOver-enthusiasm is just so so so counter-productive at networking events, it gives you up and shows everyone that you are too desperate. Desperation is just so repulsive - I've only recently found out! Take good care of yourself.
ReplyDeleteWe are praying 'A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS 2014' for all BBCs. IJCN AMEN!
ReplyDeleteWhat a glorious way to end the year's business tours with fellow Kings and Queens in Christ. - Dec. 2013's International Luxury Goods Fair at the Amsterdam Convention Center. Super products, super connections, Wow, Jesus Christ still sits on The Throne!
ReplyDeleteRemember to stay calm, but assertive at all networking events this year. Pretend that sparkling wine glass means so much to you but don't let it steer you off course. You are a winner not a loser. God bless you all!
ReplyDeleteWith my right hand raised up, and my left hand on my chest, I promise to stay calm at all networking events I attend.Thanks for the piece of advice.
ReplyDeleteAlways pray before you go to meetings. You will have the edge.
ReplyDeleteI recently attended a prestigious networking event- My first time. It was very different to the free networking events or the £5 at the door ones.The people were pleasant contrary to my prior beliefs. I realized people serious about business attend such meetings. £150 at the door gave me an invaluable business opportunity.
ReplyDeleteNice to have you back in Sydney, Hannah, networking events are better value for money here than in London, £150 is extortionate - my own opinion. A business event of $100 per head will give you the same satisfaction.
ReplyDeleteThe BVCA's women in private equity meeting was a great experience. Lovely to see women battling the tides.
ReplyDeleteExcellent 3 course dinner at the last BVCA meeting, Yummy! but new business deals would have been yummier, I will try again.
ReplyDeleteCroissants and light champagne, what a wonderful way to start the day? "Beautiful," is what I call today's prayer breakfast, no one was intoxicated, we had the right dose as the bible commands us to. "God still answers prayers" - was this day's conclusion.
ReplyDeleteWe celebrated Mothering Sunday with special thanks to God Who gave us Jesus Christ through the most blessed mother of all time - Mother Mary. It was a special networking event for all BBC mums, young and old mums alike - God bless everyone who attended.Thanks Father God!
ReplyDeleteTo all BBCs, - I pray that all your business plans for this summer season blossom and yield bountiful fruits. IJCN. AMEN.
ReplyDeleteRemember to bring your business cards to all the networking events you attend this summer, or else you make it difficult for potential clients to follow you up!
ReplyDeleteEnsure 'Quality Assurance' is topmost on your list when you've created your clientele base, otherwise, you've lost all that time and money spent on networking activities. Take care.
ReplyDeleteI can't agree more, Yolanda.
ReplyDeleteQuality Assurance really, really works. I am a make-up artist, own a hairdressing salon plus a health and fitness workshop. The gospel of QA pumped new life into my business.
ReplyDeleteI know it is a bit early, but I am really looking forward to The Christmas Ball!
ReplyDeleteI have grown to believe that business networking is a more cost-effective method of generating new business than advertising or other public relations efforts.
ReplyDeleteAt your next networking event, try introducing some Ferrero Rocher at dull moments, the taste is really…um…unforgettable, especially the ones with lemon flavour. Once, it was a present given by my dad’s business partner, i really want to know where can i buy it in Europe…I am living in the Netherlands.
ReplyDeleteGreat! That sounds sensible.
ReplyDeleteEvery new day gives you another chance to broaden your network. It is really exciting.
ReplyDeleteHappy boxing day, ye olde folks!
ReplyDeleteStay on top of the game in your next networking event - refresh your spirit with our 5 top tips to effective networking.
ReplyDeleteHappy Easter!
ReplyDeleteKings and Queens, let us meet in Hong Kong in July 2015.
ReplyDeletePlease send me the full info on the Hong Kong trip.
ReplyDeleteYou need to be a registered member with us first. Once this is done we will send you a link via your email to download our 2015 Pack.
ReplyDeleteLast week, we went on a trip to Israel. At the immigration desk, I was asked if I was religious at all. With great enthusiasm, I responded and said; "indeed I am very, very, very religious." I thought that would be the right thing to say to gain the favour of the officer, after all my trip to Israel was of a religious nature and I am very serious about my Christianity. Within minutes, I was seized and taken to a special room and seriously interrogated, I was stripped to my pants and treated like a terrorist. I only wanted to visit the birthplace of my Lord Jesus Christ. What an awful experience, but that will not stop me from visiting Israel again.
ReplyDeleteWelcome back, and a lovely winter season to all Kings and Queens that attended the last BBC seminar held in Hong Kong. Remain blessed. IJCN AMEN.
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