Credit: Shutterstock photo
Networking events are a great way of spreading the word about your small business. However, many people are unsure of the correct etiquette when attending business networking functions. Here are some of my tips for making the most of the time that you spend there:
Prepare beforehand: It helps to try and imagine some of the questions you are likely to be asked at the event. By considering how you would answer these queries, it helps you to answer them more confidently. Don't prepare a script though, because it will be obvious if you have been rehearsing.
Set goals: In the days before the event, think about what you want to achieve by attending it. Do you want to meet specific contacts in your industry or do you have a new product that you want to make people aware of? Your goals will have an impact on the strategies that you will employ.
Business Cards: These are the most vital tool for good networking. You should invest in top quality professional business cards if you want to make the best impression. Poor business cards will only reflect badly on your business.
Be authentic: It is crucial that you appear to be a genuine person who is friendly and approachable. You will be personally representing your business, so whatever people think of you they will also think about your company.
Don't sell: This may seem like strange advice, but actually the purpose of networking events is not to give your sales a quick boost. Throwing your business card at everyone you meet is counter-intuitive and simply a waste of your time. Making a good impression with the right people is far more important in the long run.
Listen and learn: If you forget about selling, you can actually learn an awful by listening carefully. You will hear the industry gossip and get a head start on new trends.
Follow-up: Unless you continue to build upon the relationships that you start at networking events, your time has been wasted. Contact prospects not long after the event while you are still fresh in their mind.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.
