1. INCREASE YOUR VISIBILITY
Establishing top of mind awareness is critical in any marketing campaign and make no mistake about it, attending business networking events is a key marketing strategy if done properly. To get the best result from networking make sure your face and our message get in front of the same – and the right – people on an ongoing basis.
2. START RELATIONSHIPS THAT WILL LEAD TO STRATEGIC ALLIANCES, JOINT VENTURES AND REFERRALS
Meeting people at the networking function is merely the important first step towards reaching your client attraction goals. It’s what you do after the event that is more important. Follow-up is key to deepening the relationships that will increase your bottom line.
3. STAY CURRENT ON TRENDS IN YOUR INDUSTRY (AND THOSE OF YOUR TARGET MARKET)
Attending networking events hosted by the Chamber allows you to glean information about current and future trends. The information you gather at these functions can easily give you an advantage over your competition.
4. CONNECT WITH KEY INFLUENCERS IN YOUR INDUSTRY AND WITHIN YOUR TARGET MARKET
Do some research. Find out which events attract the people you want to meet and focus on those event to get the biggest return on your investment of time, money and energy.
5. LEARN FROM AND BE MOTIVATED BY POWERFUL SPEAKERS
In addition to imparting important information, many of these speakers can often be the spark that jolts you into action.
6. FIND SUPPLIERS AND SOLUTIONS TO YOUR PROBLEMS
Most people think of networking events as a place to pursue their own business, but we might also be able to give business to other attendees and solve some of our problems at the same time. Networking events can be a great place to find accountants, printers, salespeople, etc. for yourself and your clients.
7. HONE YOUR MARKETING MESSAGE
Use business networking events to practice and refine your elevator pitch. Can you convey in 30 seconds or less what solutions you provide, for whom you provide them, and the benefits of doing business with you? Practice, practice, practice until you feel confident that you are conveying your message in the most powerful and succinct way.
8. SOCIALISE
Human beings are social animals and need the type of stimulation available when interacting face-to-face with others. As more and more people work out of their attics, basements, or spare bedrooms, it has become increasingly important for us to socialise, recharge our batteries and preserve our sanity.
9. RECRUIT TALENT
If you are looking to expand your business and hire staff, business networking events are a good starting point for your exploration of the marketplace. You will be able to enter into conversations with potential employees and get clear on what your
needs are. That perfect employee might be right in front of you!
10. UNCOVER THE “HOT BUTTONS” OF YOUR TARGET MARKET
Capitalise on the conversations you have at business networking events to uncover what makes prospective clients tick and what ticks them off. Then create products or services that will alleviate their pain and make you a hero.
