One of the most important elements in business is networking. By definition, networking is simply the act of connecting with people to exchange information and develop relationship for mutual growth. For some people, especially the shy ones, building a strong networking comes as a challenge. I am an introvert myself and connecting with people is something that is not natural for me. However, these few steps in networking has helped me to build a strong networking and connect with other people and organization fast and effectively thus, affiliating becomes easy.
1. Attending events and seminars. If you want to build networking, you really have to make time attending for events. You may start attending events which the attendees have the same interests with you. It’s easier to connect with people you can easily relate too. A simple art exhibit in your town, if you are into paintings and arts, is actually a good start. Once you make friends with people there, you may exchange your contacts and develop a stronger connection with them. Being part of an active group that shares common interest is the easiest way to build a network.
2. Find ways to help. You don’t encourage people to support your business right away. Instead, you should try to build rapport with them during the first stage of networking. The best way for people to remember you or to get noticed in a group is when you are willing to help any possible way you can. Helping others do not always equate to money. Sometimes, helping them simply means finding opportunities for them. For example, if one person in the group owns restaurant or offer catering services, you may endorse him to other friends, thus, making your network bigger. In business, relationships are investment. If you help other people, they will soon help you too.
3. Participate in Good Cause Projects. Participating projects for a cause that you believe in is one more way to expand your network. By doing this, you will know a lot of people that are willing to help one another, thus setting a positive tone on a group that you belong to. It’s like building your network and participating in a project for a cause at the same time.
4. Breaking Limitations and Divisions. The number one mistake in networking is not growing and being stuck with just one group. If you are seriously into expanding your network, then I suggest you start breaking limitations and divisions and that means joining other groups that you are not very familiar with. For example, if you’re in food business, don’t get stuck with people who are in the same industry. Explore some other networks like real estate or stock exchange and learn to create opportunities with them. Do not also limit yourself from people in the same age as yours. Old and experienced entrepreneurs are the best teachers when it comes to growing your business.
5. Arranging events. Once you have expanded your networks, it’s also good to arrange events once in awhile to develop and enhance your relationship with your network. By this time, you have enough confidence to interact with different kinds of entrepreneurs and in the process, you are also helping others to expand their networks.
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