Use the Power of Networking to Grow Your Small Business:

As a member of a local networking group, we really understand the importance of business networking. Networking has been a valuable source of business referrals for our company. It has also helped us develop business relationships with companies who provide services that we frequently utilize.

In order for networking to work for you, you need to choose the right networking group or event. Some companies benefit from attending events that relate only to their industry, i.e. trade shows, conferences, and related associations. Other companies thrive in an environment where individual business owners merge together to provide a continuous source of referrals for each other. It also allows members to market their goods or services in a non-competitive environment, since most referral-based networking groups only allow one member from each business category to join.

Before joining any group it is important to evaluate the quality of the people within the group. If the networking group is referral-based, you need to know that the people within the group can be trusted to deliver their goods or services in a fast and professional manner. You don't want to sour a business relationship by referring a client to someone who provides substandard service. In the long run it is more important to make quality contacts than a lot of contacts that don't lead anywhere. Developing quality relationships will also increase the rate that your referrals are converted into sales.

In order for any type of networking to be successful, focus on making a good first impression. Make sure you maintain a professional appearance at all times. Be sure to shake hands, make eye contact, and take a genuine interest in what others are saying. Listen to how other business owners can help you. Ask questions if you don't fully understand what someone is saying and don't be afraid to make suggestions or comments. Speak clearly and loudly enough for people to hear what you are saying and be careful not to dominate the conversation. Instead of selling them on your business, ask them to elaborate on theirs first. This way you can explain how forming a relationship with you can help their business grow.

When it comes to elaborate more on your business, make sure you are prepared. Know how your good or service will benefit individuals and companies and be prepared to explain this to others. You should have two introductions prepared and rehearsed so that you are able to recite them under any circumstances. One should be a 10 second introduction that explains who you are and what you do. This is used to encourage people to become interactive and ask questions. The second introduction should be 30 seconds and can be used to back up your first introduction. This will allow you to state the benefits and examples of your good or services. It is important that both introductions be genuine and honest. Don't try to be something that you aren't.

For business networking to be successful, it is imperative that you follow up with contacts after the networking event. The next day send an email or a hand-written card to the people that you met. Make it personal by mentioning something from your conversation and express an interest in remaining in contact. A couple of weeks later offer to meet the individual to discuss how you could potentially help them.

Business networking does work as long as you follow the steps above. If you are ready to grow your business through networking and would like to attend a free networking meeting in the Las Vegas area visit Vegas Valley LeTip's Web Site for more information.

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