Three Keys to Powerful Networking

Your network is your net worth. @Portergale
Powerful statement isn’t it?

When you think about it, the networks we form as entrepreneurs really shape our career success. The power to network successfully is certainly something every entrepreneur has inside of them because let’s face it, we rely on our own bread and butter to pay the bills.

Though I’m no pro, I will say the networks I’ve formed thus far in my career really helped to make the transition into full time self-employment that much easier.

Here are three key points I’ve picked up from past mentors coupled with lots of practice to really network like a pro!

Know your audience (as much as you can).
Do your research on an upcoming conference, trade show, etc. to see which potential clients or colleagues will be there you’d like to get to have the opportunity to get to know.
Allow yourself the time to make a meaningful connection with at least 2 of the 5 names you came up with.
Always say hello with a firm handshake.
Set the tone by introducing yourself to strangers in the room with a firm handshake. No one wants their arm taken off, but showing you’re not timid is a great way to break the ice!
Be genuine, be yourself.
Be confident in who you are and what you’ve built in your business. Don’t under (or over) sell yourself, but rather develop a natural conversation with the other person.
Try to pick up 1-2 non-business facts about the other person. Use this as a means to interact on a personal level when you send that follow up email saying how wonderful it was to meet them.
Sure, at the end of the day it’s our talent, passion and knowledge that will land us that client, but sometimes we all need that helping hand to get our foot in the door!

Elizabeth Ann Shaw, MS, RDN, CLT, Incoming Mentor Program Coordinator