Connecting with others face-to-face through business group and community involvement is still so important to building your credibility and visibility as a entrepreneur. Networking is all about sharing your network and contacts with others in ways that we focus on what we “give” to each other instead of what we “get” from each other. We all have wants and needs. To create long-lasting relationships, be a “giver” of leads, contacts, business and support to each person you interact with. Make sure you have a purpose and goal for each event you attend.
If you are shy or uncomfortable with the thought of networking (let’s face it – who isn’t?), try playing a little game with yourself. Make it your goal to meet five new people at the event (or whatever number you decide). Once you are done meeting five people, then you can just relax and enjoy the event. This is exactly how I started networking in the beginning of my business. It takes the pressure off and gives you a plan for success. Now I am comfortable in just about any networking situation.
By the way, networking was the single most valuable marketing tactic that brought me the most referrals and clients when my business first started. So, even though we’re talking about building your business online, don’t discount the importance of meeting people face-to-face. It’s crucial to building your “know, like and trust factor.”
When you’re meeting people face-to-face, whether it’s at a networking event or meeting someone at the supermarket, you need to be able to communicate a clear and focused introduction of yourself without sounding boring or bland. People do not want to hear a long, in-depth story about your business or objectives. Think of your introduction just like one of those million dollar Super Bowl TV spots. You only have a minute or two to get your message across.
Here is how you introduce yourself in 60 seconds. People want to know:
- Who you are
- Who you serve (your target market)
- What you offer others (how do you solve their problems)
- What is the #1 direct benefit of working with you
Here are a few examples:
Yoga teacher: “Hello, my name is ____________________ and I teach women how to practice yoga to improve their health, gain emotional well-being, and create the bodies they want.”
Accountant: “Hello, my name is ____________________ and I help small businesses manage their accounting and taxes so they can be free to work on doing what they do best.”
Business coach: “Hello, my name is ____________________ and I help wellness providers fill their practices with their ideal clients so they can live out their mission of helping others.”
Notice that your title and the name of your business aren’t always necessary. The purpose of your introduction is to get others to ask you more questions. Don’t give away too much information upfront. Allow the other person an opportunity to ask questions. Make it short and simple. A four-year-old should be able to understand what you’re saying.
If you are in the Northeast Ohio area, come connect with us at Cindy’s Red Carpet Women – a premier network for savvy business women, like you! Get more information about upcoming events here: www.RedCarpetWomenConnect.com.