Samantha Collier
People want to buy products and services from businesses run by people they like, know and trust. This means that as a small business owner, your personal network becomes your net worth in business.
Building a great word-of-mouth attitude about your business; and growing sales and encouraging customers to come back takes work. Growing your business with repeat customers will ensure it’ll be around for the long haul. If you’re not paying attention to building and maintaining your network, your sales will dry up, leaving you scrambling to find new customers.
How do you create a new referral stream? You hit the ground running at networking events and build new relationships.
Here are some tips to network like a pro and grow your small business:
Have a Plan for the Networking Event
When you buy a ticket to a networking event, you should immediately pick out key targets in advance to build your network. You can easily research your targets via social media sites like LinkedIn.
Create a Networking Goal
When you attend a networking event, focus on meeting five quality contacts. Again, make sure you’ve done your research.
Your Fortune is in Your Follow-up
Once you meet a new contact, particularly if it’s a warm or hot lead, you should follow up within 48 hours. Send an email, connect on LinkedIn or call to make an appointment.
You Can’t Bring Your A Game in Your B Suit!
Presentation is EVERYTHING! When you attend a networking event, you should look like someone that your target audience wants to be talking too. You should look like money and success to get attention. Ladies, be careful not to go too tight or short and men, make sure your shoes are perfectly shined.
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