The explosion of virtual networking has created an unprecedented opportunity for you to network anywhere in the world – without leaving your living room!
Remember that what you do every day is more important that what you do once in a while. Consistency is key!
As in all things, getting organized for success is ESSENTIAL. Here’s what to do to quickly grow your network.
STEP 1:
Organize all of your contacts.
You know more people then you realize. Each of us knows 300-400 people or more. Also, you’ll be surprised by who will prove to be the person who sends you the most business.
Get a free or low cost for gathering your contacts and organizing them in a Customer Relationship Management System (CRM) or simple spreadsheet.
STEP 2:
Highlight the 90 people in your contact list who energize and inspire you.
Life is too short to speak to and do business with people who rub you the wrong way! When we identify people in our database who we enjoy associating with, we’ll build the business of our dreams.
Think about past clients you’d like to do business with again (or be referred by), service providers you know who serve your target market who’ll introduce you to their clients, people who you’re close with from clubs, Facebook friends who regularly like and comment on your posts, etc.
At a minimum, scroll through your cell phone and write down their names. Use a spreadsheet or CRM database to track your leads.
STEP 3:
Identify 20 Influential People you don’t already know.
We all know the saying “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” If you want to create new results, then you must meet NEW people! Start by creating a list of 20 influential people that you want to reach out to.
These are people you don’t already know, but they are influencers in your market or people who can help you reach your target audience (media contacts, professional organization leaders, thought leaders in your niche).
Once you connect with them, you can move them over to your Network of 90 list. Approach other influential people connecting from the heart, in a genuine way that’s authentic and giving first.
STEP 4:
Identify Opportunities for Virtual Networking.
Spending just 15-30-minutes a day researching and locating ideal networking opportunities on Google will change your business forever. The number of great networking venues you now have access to is jaw-dropping.
Get dependable new leads every month by creating a consistent schedule of virtual networking events. There are people out there looking for you. The more you connect, the more clients you can enroll.
Consider investing in a membership for a nationwide organization like eWomenNetwork or NAWBO. With scores of chapters, you instantly expand your networking options to hundreds or even thousands of members.
If you need a little help getting started, download our step-by-step guide to Propel Your Network in just 15-30 minutes a day.
BONUS STEP:
How to Talk About What You Do
Great! So you’ve started to network. The next step is knowing what to say as you are meeting people. Check out this article to develop your 30-60 second networking script, or “Your Who and Do What Statement.”