Networking Ideas
How to Connect With Every Networker You Meet.

Networking Ideas for Networking Success

Networking is about creating an extended family. It's about developing connections and caring about people. A network starts with any group, organization, institution, company or individual you associate with for either business or personal reasons.

You can connect with others through your similar interests. The things you enjoy doing, talking about, listening to or collecting -- can help you connect with others with the same interests. People with like-minded interests are more willing to spend time with those who share their same interests.

“Connecting is all about your friendliness, your ability to engage, and your willingness to give value first. When you combine those three attributes, you will have uncovered the secret of powerful connections that lead to RICH relationships.” -Jeffrey Gitomer

• The Chamber of Commerce Business after Hours. This is a great place to try out your new Unique Selling Proposition. The Chamber of Commerce is your best local networking resource.

• A networking club or business organization. Most are members and have solid business contacts. They usually meet once or twice a month. The more you attend, the more people you get known and succeed in your market.

• Any Business event, power breakfasts, or seminars. Find places where movers and shakers go. These people make things happen!

• Civic organizations such as The Rotary, Kiwanis, Elks, Moose, or Lions Club. This is a great place to build a relationship with others, and help the community at the same time.

• Get involved with a charity. You can be a community volunteer with the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association. Participate in a walk-a-thon for the Easter Seals.

• Trade shows. General business shows are excellent places to get known. Whether you set up a booth to get sales or just walk around talking to other vendors, it's a great place to get ahead. Trade shows just may be your best networking venue of them all so don't waste it!

• Join a private club such as a golf country club or a food and networking club. Check out Club Corp. They have branches all over the US.

• Join a Health club. Exercise and network. Get healthy and wealthy at the same time. ;-)

• Sports events and tailgate parties. Everyone loves to go to the ball games.

• Don't forget the parents of your children's friends. If your prospect's kid plays in any sports with your kids, you'll have a big advantage.

• Neighborhood homeowner's association. Get to know your neighbors.

“The highest form of public relations is human relations. People like to buy from friends, so it is crucial to make the human bond before you can make a lasting business bond.” Jay Conrad Levinson

• Show up early, be ready to work and take plenty of business cards with you.

• If you attend a business event with another business associate, split up. You can get more contacts working separately.

• Have your Unique Selling Proposition down pat. Keep it under 30 seconds or less and make it compelling.

• Be happy and positive. No one wants to hear about our "tough day." People want to do business with a winner, not a whiner.

• Don’t drink. If everyone else is a bit loose, you’ll have a distinct advantage by being sober.

• Don’t smoke or smell like a cigarette.

• Stay until the end. The longer you stay, the more contacts you’ll make.

examples: Your local newspapers, Chamber of Commerce newsletters or monthly calendar, and subscribe to the Business Journal for a list of business events and more networking ideas.