Why you should network for your business
Not all networking organizations are created equal . Many come with their own set of challenges that can hinder your progress rather than help. We’re going to explore mistakes that prevent successful networking.
5 Big Networking Mistakes
Are you attending or are you having a member of your staff attend a networking meeting? How do you know if your employee succeeds? How do you know if you succeed?
Facilitating our networking division every month since 2002 has resulted in me witnessing many networking experiences including embarrassing, fascinating, profound, moving, and outstanding to name a few.
If you are sending an employee to an event/meeting, have you educated them so their networking experience is successful? Are they required to meet specific people? Do they need proof of attendance? Are they required to set a specific number of appointments after the meeting? Are they encouraged to join a committee?
The first mistake is to send an ill prepared employee to a networking event. Reach out to the networking organization and obtain as much information as possible about the design and structure of the event.
Mismatch
Are you attending a networking meeting that is too broad or too nichey?
Networking events frequently target specific industries or sectors, which can limit their reach and potential. While it’s great to connect with like-minded individuals, this narrow focus can result in missed opportunities. After all, there are potential prospects in other industries or sectors that could be valuable to your business.
In essence, if the majority of attendees at a networking event aren’t part of your target audience, you may struggle to derive substantial value from the experience. Expanding your reach and connecting with a diverse set of professionals can open doors to unexpected opportunities and collaborations.
The second mistake is not assessing the participants in the meeting.
Less than desirable participants…
The third mistake is attending an event that is geared to those who are looking for only free events.
Free networking events, in particular, can sometimes attract participants with varying levels of expertise and commitment. You may find individuals attending these events who have little knowledge about their own industry, let alone others. Engaging in conversations with such participants can be unproductive and may not yield tangible results for your business growth objectives.
Professional networking groups, such as Business Network International (BNI) or Chamber of Commerce events, often attract more dedicated and knowledgeable professionals who are committed to their industries. Joining such networks can ensure that you interact with individuals who can genuinely contribute to your business’s growth.
Explore through Meetup.com and Eventbrite other events that are geared to serious professionals willing to commit time and financial support.
The fourth mistake…
Lack of follow up with anyone and assuming that networking only occurs at the actual event.
One common pitfall in networking groups is the failure to take action after meeting new people. Building relationships and expanding your network requires follow-up and continued engagement. Unfortunately, many participants in networking events leave without taking this crucial step, missing out on opportunities to cultivate connections and build relationships that could be beneficial in the long run.
To make the most of networking, it’s essential to have a post-event strategy that includes follow-up activities. Sending a thank-you email, connecting on LinkedIn, or scheduling a follow-up meeting are all ways to ensure that you capitalize on the potential connections made during networking events.
The fifth but not final networking mistake
Unprofessionalism; check your ego at the door!
Networking events can be a mixed bag when it comes to professionalism. While some attendees are excellent conversationalists and make a positive impression, others may come across as brash or unprofessional. Such interactions can leave potential contacts with a negative impression, potentially resulting in lost opportunities instead of closing the deals you hoped for.
Maintaining professionalism and courtesy in networking interactions is crucial. Approach each encounter with a genuine interest in building mutually beneficial relationships, and ensure your behavior reflects your commitment to professionalism.
Be timely with the amount you share, ask questions about others, follow the principals of the Giver’s Gain. Make it all about the other person, not you! You want people to be your raving fans because of how you made them feel. Be sincere, authentic and transparent.
In Conclusion
Networking is essential for business development, however it requires time and attention to detail. Speak with others who attend networking events and find out what works for them. Strategize your experience in advance, don’t wait until you get there an fumble through the meeting and feel disappointed in the experience. Looking for some great networking meetings? Contact me for a free 15 minute consultation at 440-212-4987. Happy Networking!