How to use the power of online and offline networking for business and career success
Whenever I run a networking workshop I always ask my delegates to literally map out their ideal network. I find that this exercise really helps delegates focus on WHO they want to meet, and how these people are going to help them achieve their business and career goals. This may sound rather calculating or manipulative. [...]
continued from yesterday… 4. You may find that many of your ex-school and ex-university friends may now be in a position where they need to grow their network. They actually may welcome the conversation. You lose nothing by asking and remembering to ask permission to have the conversation. 5. Ask a mate to come and [...]
I was running a couple of workshops today for a group of accountants in a top six accountancy practice. Pretty much everyone asked this question; “how do I start to have business conversations with my friends?” The subtext of course being, ‘how do I win work from my friends?’ A valid question, and one that [...]
If I speak to any business owner or entrepreneur, they always tell me (often slightly quietly) that they know they should be networking and spending more time on their network. However trying to win new business, operational support and day to day running of the business just seem to get in the way. They then [...]
Picture the scene… The lights are low, and the bride is bopping away to her chosen music, the wine has very definitely flowed…. Yes, I was at my sister-in-law’s wedding this weekend. As often can happen, the sights and sounds of a wedding celebration can often attract uninvited guests – wedding crashers. I’m sure the [...]
I’ve been musing…. Not about world peace, but networking goals. I know, I should get out a little more! What should be in your networking goals? What defines an differentiates a networking goal from a business development goal? Are your networking goals your business development goals? The answer is no. Unfortunately, many people either don’t [...]
Yesterday, I was fortunate enough to be able to give a referral to my network. As the timescales were tight I initially contacted two people, and then remembered a third and contacted the third. Nothing particularly remarkable about this. In all honesty with a large amount of thought I could have recommended many people for [...]
Instead of spending your time going out to networking events, how about focusing your networking efforts on relationships who can regularly pass your referrals?
This is a networking tip taken from an extract of ‘The Financial Times Guide To Business Networking’. To order your copy of the book, please visit amazon.
Jon Baker is a Business Coach, Sales Trainer and Experienced Public Speaker. Jon specialises in working with partners and owners from the smaller professional practices.