You have qualified as a coach and started to set up your business. You’ve been told that you need to network and you’re ready to go forth and talk to strangers. So what do you need to know first before you take that next leap?
Finally take responsibility for your software defined networking actions and don’t expect it to happen overnight. All good things take time so just because you don’t see the results immediately don’t get disheartened and don’t blame others.
The answer is one word; NETWORKING. Since recruiters maximize the use of their networks and others, all you have to do is be so well networked that a recruiter can’t help but find you. If you really are well networked, as recruiters tap into their networks, your name will always come up as a referral. The more often recruiters hear, “You should call ____, they sound exactly like what you are looking for” the higher the probability you will get a call.
Set a goal to connect on a networking groups wolverhampton deeper level with a minimum of five people but don’t give out your business card. Let them know you are interested in meeting them by saying something like, “I am a financial adviser, (or attorney, etc.). I specialize in helping people (or your market niche like dentists, doctors, business owners, etc.) have more money and enjoy more free time. But I’m much more interested in learning about you.” Obviously you need to know your market niche and establish an area of specialization before you can deliver this message effectively.
A provoking thought: Business gurus and networking groups promote “building relationships.” How many people reading this article are building relationships through conversation? Granted, conversation has morphed in the 21st century. It’s more electronic than ever. A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far, away, I can remember people refusing to leave their name and phone number on an answering machine because they found it too impersonal and rude. Nowadays, people would rather leave their live voice on an electronic device than “talk” to a real person. We love communication but we don’t necessarily love conversation. And for many, they don’t like having a conversation that’s deeper than 144 characters.
Walking into stores and communicating with staff if you are hoping to make B2B connections is an option. Greeted with a handshake and a warm hello, to provide the staff with useful and relevant information that they would be interested in. There is no point really to go into a bakery and try and sell them shoes or to stock products as the products and business need to connect.
Keep in touch with your network to see what they are up to and how you can help them. You never want to turn to your network when you really need them, especially when you have not bothered staying in touch. Call to say hello, send an interesting article, or invite them to a networking event.