10 Networking Tips From Professionals to Help You Grow Your Business

As a solopreneur or businessperson, one of the finest investments you can make is in your personal growth. You can only go as far as your abilities and expertise will allow you to go as a business owner.

Attending seminars, conferences, and workshops is extremely beneficial in this regard. The WOW (Woman of Worth) Conference in Vernon, British Columbia, was a great experience for me. Rouche Signhi, the originator, has been hosting these seminars for several years. Each event will feature fantastic motivating and inspirational speakers as well as opportunity to meet and interact with other ladies who have similar interests. One of our clients, Kenny Mill, was invited to be one of the keynote speakers this year, which made it even better. She spoke about the Law of Attraction, which set off a series of events that culminated in my taking a bow in front of a standing ovation! (The point of the exercise was to broadcast to the world that I am available for speaking engagements, so if you know of any, please let me know.) Events like this provide an excellent chance to meet prospects, JV partners, and vendors in addition to learning next-level techniques. So, what's the best way to make the most of your next gathering? Here are some exclusive ideas on how to network like a pro.

 1) Make a good first impression. Allow your clothing to be the focal point of attention. Wear something that makes you feel like a million dollars and boosts your self-assurance. Bring a standout item, such as a one-of-a-kind pin, scarf, or pair of shoes, to stand out. Make a strong first impression that prompts others to say, "I need to meet that person."

 

2) Mentally prepare yourself. Know why you're there in the first place. Let your enthusiasm for what you do shine through. What do you hope to gain knowledge about? Take a look at the speaker list and make an effort to say hi to everyone. Consider three different sorts of individuals you'd want to meet. Make an effort to be specific. Visualize these individuals first thing in the morning, before the workshop or conference starts. This will assist you in attracting the specific sort of relationships from which you will profit the most.

3) Arrive early. Arrive early so you can have a coffee, look around the vendor booths, and meet some new people before things get crowded. Keep an eye out for folks you think you could get along with and start up a discussion with them. Attending early also allows you to get a seat that is close enough to see and hear the action on stage.

4) Be a generous person. Have you ever encountered someone who seemed to be trying to extort money from you? Doesn't it give out a terrible, negative energy? Shift your energy to one of abundance and ask yourself how you can best serve others to avoid this occurring to you. Be enthralled when you meet someone new. Learn about them. Pose inquiries. Find out how you can assist this individual. You may always give a resource, praise, link, book, suggestion, or tool to assist someone. Is it possible for you to conduct an interview with them for your podcast? Is it possible for you to write a review of their book on your blog? Is it possible for you to co-host a webinar with them? I filmed three video eTips and made a handful of Facebook LIVE broadcasts while at the WOW event. How are you going to do it?

5) Request a business card from them. It is usually preferable to request the other person's business card. It feels better to ask for their card rather than pushing yours in their hands. Plus, you'll be in charge when you return from the event, so you may send a follow-up. Make a note on the card about what you learnt or discussed with them so you may refer to it when you write them later.

6) Promote the event on social media. Social media is an excellent tool for establishing and keeping connections. Take a lot of pictures to publish on social media throughout the event. If you're a wedding planner, a free ad on Owambe Vendors, a large marketplace for party vendors, will help you expand your business. Make a Facebook LIVE video on location. Your fans are curious about your whereabouts. Photograph the speakers and other individuals you meet. After the event, here's a photo of Christine and me. As you can see, wine plays an important role in her brand. And there's chocolate! You may also email these photos to the people you meet in your follow-up. Try tagging them on social media and expressing your gratitude for the opportunity to meet them. In a follow-up email, you can include a photo of them. This is a touching approach to convey kindness with a new acquaintance.

7) Change it up. At lunch, sit with a variety of individuals. After the class, join groups for supper and chat. The little talk that takes place before and after the event may sometimes lead to the best relationships.

8) Take a stand in front of Mike. If a Q&A session is available, take a seat at the microphone and ask your question. You'll get the opportunity to introduce yourself to the entire audience and receive professional responses to your questions. People will frequently approach you later to express how they responded to what you said.

9) Offer a Testimony. If you enjoyed the event, let everyone know. Inform the event organizer and provide a testimonial. You may also make a video testimonial on Facebook and tag it.

10) Show 'em how much you care. "A little scent clings to the hand that offers flowers," says a Chinese adage. The most essential aspect of returning home after the event is following up with and maintaining the relationships you formed. It's a quality-over-quantity philosophy here. Sort the cards you've received. Send a nice, sincere email to the few people with whom you have a true relationship. Is there anything more you can recommend or send them as a follow-up to your conversation? You want them to have a better life now that they've met you. Also, don't forget to share your experience on social media and send an email to your mailing list.