Networking: Knowing What You Are Trying to Accomplish

[Whitney Hill]

I maintain that the most valuable wealth that can be built up is an investment in relationships with others in or out of business. A strong network is the greatest asset that you can build. Money can be lost, valuables can be stolen, goods can perish, buildings can be destroyed but constant, proper investment in relationships with people pays big dividends in the long haul.

Unfortunately in business, newcomers and sales people many times start networking without understanding what they are trying to accomplish. They go out with spear in hand looking to make a kill. While prospecting is an objective of networking, there are many other things to be accomplished through business networking:

• Finding partners that can refer business
• Building industry relationships
• Locating qualified vendors
• Getting your message out and building your brand
• Exchanging news information
• Building your brand
• Building industry relationships

Suggestions for making quality contacts and getting the best out of networking functions:

• Be interested in the other party and their business
• Meet as many people as possible while spending enough time with each
• Don't just talk business, share other areas of interest
• Bring business cards
• Follow up with one on one meetings, email, letter and/or social media connection request (Linkedin, Facebook, Inside919, etc)
• Look for ways that you can help the new contact

Remember that the first goal is to build quality relationships with areas of commonality. The rest will take care of itself.

 

Whitney Hill

Carolina Web Consultants, Inc

 

[Pat Howlett]

I found that when I moved here from Colorado I had left my most valuable asset back there, not my house (was able to sell it) not my business (was able to move it with me)... it was my business network I had built for close to 30 years - people who really knew me and had worked with me and were referring others to me.

When I had to restart in the 919 I felt quite alone and this realization "A strong network is the greatest asset that you can build" became very evident and I've been building ever since - that personal project turned into Inside919.

I think that many members of the network can relate if they've had to relocate.

Good reminder and share!