11 Small Business Networking Tips

"The successful networkers I know, the ones receiving tons of referrals and feeling truly happy about themselves, continually put the other person's needs ahead of their own." ~ Bob Burg

From hospital equipments to handicraft ventures, networking carries many benefits for the small business such getting new knowledge and skills, having opportunities to enhance reputation, getting new business leads, and access to new sources of information and support, and more. The following tips will help you with your business networking initiative.

1. Choose relevant events, and groups - You only have limited time and energy to devote on business networking. To get the most out of your efforts choose to interact with people, networks and groups that can be of some use to your business e.g. those who can buy your products/services or act as referral sources.

2. Determine your objectives for attending an event – Not all meetings are organized to encourage business connections, some are learning events while others are meant to attract volunteers, etc. You need to zero in on your objectives and select events that will serve your purpose the best.

3. Understand that genuineness and trust are integral - Think of networking as genuinely trying to build trust and relationships. And learning about the problems that other business owners and professional face, so that you can help them, and also get help for your business when you need it.

4. Prepare your pitch - You should have a short and crisp (about 60 seconds) business introduction pitch handy, which you can recite anytime. Also, you should have a clear idea of what kind of help you are seeking, and clearly state it when an opportunity comes up during a conversation.

5. Keep your business cards handy – Carry plenty of cards with you and freely distribute them to anyone who seems interested in your business.

6. Meet strangers with confidence - Once you've identified the key people, confidently approach them and introduce yourself. Allow them to do the same, and engage in a conversation. Establish rapport by asking open ended questions about their business such as the beginnings, what they like best, what's the burning issue, etc. But you also need to avoid interrupting an ongoing conversation, so it's wise to walk up only to people who aren't currently engaged.

7. Talk more about their business than yours - Many people that you'll meet would love to talk about themselves and their business. You need give them the chance, the time and your attention to strike a chord with them. Genuineness is the key, most people will love to do business with someone they like and trust.

8. Follow up on your contacts - Once you've talked to the key people, exchanged business cards and have spotted opportunities don't let the fire die out once you get back to your office. So you need to send them short notes or cards as reminders of the meeting you had and where, your business information, etc. You could even invite them to any networking events that you know of that they could benefit from.

9. Act on referrals quickly – First it shows your genuineness and that you appreciated the referral. And second, it's a sales lead and you might lose a profitable contract if you delay action.

10. Prepare to meet them another time – Use the next meeting to learn about their business in depth and spot opportunities of how you could be of help to them. If you do, then show them how you can.

11. Become a member of industry organizations - Search and join organizations that can benefit your small business. Join your local chamber of commerce, industry clubs, associations, etc. Further, becoming a member of organizations for social cause such as the rotary club can also help you network and increase your business popularity. However, memberships alone don't guarantee anything, you should also be willing to actively participate in their affairs. e.g. taking up positions as a volunteer.