When you're in business for yourself, networking should become your way of life. I am not just talking about going to business networking groups, chamber meeting or after hours. I am saying that you need to have a networking frame of mind. When you are out and about in your daily life, networking opportunities will pop up.
Your hairdresser could be your best connection. Ask her or him if they could help you with finding leads and referrals. Leave several business cards or brochures with them. Give them a special discount, gift or possibly a kick back. And don't forget about referring people back to them as well. That's the best type of gift.
When you are in the post office line, be sure to have your brochures or cards with you and strike up a conversation. Just like when you are at a networking group, find out about what they do. Always be sincere and ask them what they do first.
Business people tend to hang out and work at the local coffee shop. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself to those around you. It's a great place to connect and gain a relationship. When you go to get your daily cup of joe, make it a point to make at least one contact.
Sitting around waiting for your appointment at the dentist or doctor offices, don't be afraid to communicate. Good networking consists of practicing good communication skills. Don't wait until you are at events or networking meetings. Casual conversation could lead to a business relationship.
Movie ticket lines, airplanes, nail salons, grocery lines. Where ever you are, you can network. You can learn from them or be a resource for them.
People need what you have - information that can help someone else. Keeping it to yourself will not make you money. Share the wealth of your resources and others will acknowledge you as a go to person when they need help. That will make you always on top of their mind when they or someone they know needs your service or products.
Make it a goal to make networking a way of life. This does take time to accumulate. Don't get discouraged after 2 or 3 months, it could take upwards of more than a year depending on how active you are. Don't be afraid to open your mouth, put into practice what you know and go for it...The secret? It's who you know when it comes to business!
Get theses and more great networking tips from Carrie Harrison at http://hpmdigest.weebly.com/business-networking-today.html
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