“Networking is the cultivating of mutually beneficial, give-and-take, win-win relationships.” – Bob Burg
Networking is a necessary component of building your business and it’s the quickest way to forge relationships within the industry. Why is it important to network in-person?
- It’s easier to build lasting relationships face-to-face
- It’s a great way to build your reputation – you’ll be seen and known as consistent
- It’s a great way to reconnect with people you already know and meet people you don’t know
- It’s a good place to practice your elevator pitch
- Strong relationships start with shared experiences
- People are more relaxed and have their guard down
- Others are there to network, too… so you’ll never have reason to feel that you’re “bugging them”
How do you master the art of networking?
- Network as often as possible
- Don’t think of networking events as boring
- Be willing to dedicate the time to mastering in-person networking skills
- Get a plan together – determine when and where
- Master your elevator pitch
- Prepare ahead of time
