What is the Net Worth of your Networking?
Networking is an important part of any business, and yet so many people fail at it. Why do they do it? Why do they take the time from their already busy day to go out and meet new people? Obviously, in most cases it is to increase their bottom line, by introducing more people to the services and products they offer, etc. Yet,it is not enough to just attend a meeting, shake a hand and grab a business card. It is equally important, while you are there, to begin building a relationship – ask questions, be present, and mentally note where a future connection could occur. Additionally, you need to follow up with that person. Over 90% of businesses DO NOT follow up with prospects after first meeting them. Just imagine how much business is being left on the table…
I challenge you to change this statistic and put a follow up strategy in place. How can you set yourself apart from the others and show that you are serious about networking?
Some of the things I recommend are:
1. Within 24 hours of meeting someone at an event send a quick email telling them how much you enjoyed your conversation and it was nice to meet them. This will make you stand out from the crowd already.
2. If you want to further the conversation, ask if they would like to meet for coffee and suggest a couple of times.
3. Use Send Out Cards to then send a greeting card in the mail – it is quick, easy, and convenient to do, and it keeps a log of the cards sent for you – this will definitely impress someone…
4. Stay connected and if you have the opportunity to refer some possible business to them, or send them an article of interest this will further the relationship also.
5. Invite them to an event you think they may enjoy.
Have fun implementing these ideas into your follow-up plan and see how much it “ups your networking net worth”.