By ShaChena Gibbs
When you think about networking, do you picture a crowded room full of people pitching their services, exchanging business cards, and delivering elevator speeches? Some people excel in these environments, reaping rewards like new clients, joint venture partners, knowledgeable advisors, and helpful friends. For many of us, however, the idea of attending networking events is intimidating.
Don’t worry! Networking offers more than just mingling with strangers. You can achieve the same benefits without stepping out of your comfort zone. The key to successful networking is to build powerful relationships by giving. Offer your attention, advice, ideas, suggestions, support, compliments, and referrals. By giving, you set the stage to receive more than you ever imagined.
Here are four powerful ways to network and generate leads, even if you dread traditional mingling.
- Inform Your Family and Friends About Your Online Business
This might seem obvious, but many people overlook it. You don’t need to pitch your services or products to family and friends, but don’t keep them a secret either. Mentioning your online business casually during conversations can plant a seed that grows into unexpected opportunities.
Even if your immediate network doesn’t need your products or services, they likely know someone who does. Remember, every person is connected to an average of 250 others. By not mentioning your services to people like Cousin Angie or neighbor Tiesha, you miss the chance to reach hundreds of their contacts.
- Engage in Virtual Networking
Virtual networking allows you to connect with people worldwide from the comfort of your home. You can build extensive contact lists and join online communities that you might never encounter in person. This form of networking can grow larger and faster than traditional methods.
Tips for Effective Virtual Networking:
- Participate in Email Lists: Respond to questions, provide feedback, and engage with the content. Become someone the list owner knows and enjoys hearing from.
- Join Online Discussion Forums: Find forums where your ideal clients hang out. Start by observing (lurking) to understand the community’s dynamics. Contribute valuable advice without overtly selling your services. If allowed, include a signature with a link to your website.
- Showcase Your Expertise: Consistently provide helpful, knowledgeable input. Over time, forum members will come to know, like, and trust you, making them more likely to think of you when they or their connections need your products or services.
- Leverage Social Media Platforms
Social media is a powerful tool for networking and reaching a vast audience. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram offer opportunities to connect with potential clients, industry peers, and influencers.
Social Media Networking Strategies:
- Optimize Your Profiles: Ensure your profiles are complete and reflect your brand. Use professional photos and write clear, compelling bios.
- Share Valuable Content: Regularly post content that showcases your expertise and provides value to your audience. This could include blog posts, videos, infographics, and industry news.
- Engage with Others: Comment on posts, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions. Building relationships through genuine engagement can lead to business opportunities.
- Use Hashtags and Tags: Utilize hashtags to increase the visibility of your posts and tag relevant individuals to attract their attention.
- Attend Webinars and Virtual Events
Webinars and virtual events have become increasingly popular, providing excellent networking opportunities without the need to attend in person. These events often include interactive sessions, Q&A segments, and chat features that facilitate connections.
Maximizing Virtual Event Participation:
- Choose Relevant Events: Select webinars and virtual events that align with your industry and interests.
- Participate Actively: Ask questions, contribute to discussions, and engage with other attendees in the chat.
- Follow Up: After the event, follow up with new contacts via email or social media to solidify the connection and explore potential collaborations.
Networking doesn’t have to be an intimidating task. By informing your family and friends about your business, engaging in virtual networking, leveraging social media, and attending webinars and virtual events, you can expand your network and boost your online business without the traditional mingling. Remember, the foundation of successful networking is giving. Provide value, build trust, and watch your business grow.
Keep Rising,
ShaChena Gibbs,
CEO and Business Strategist
Real Sisters Rising Women Business Association
Meet ShaChena Gibbs, CEO and Founder of the Real Sisters Rising Women Business Association. ShaChena is an award-winning entrepreneur, educator, and association leader who has dedicated her efforts to helping businesses achieve their goals. She has over a decade of experience and is well-versed in the home-based business industry and the difficulties that businesses face on a daily basis. Her expertise spans market research, financial analysis, strategy formulation, and product development. She is a natural problem solver and leader with the ability to build strong relationships. ShaChena assists businesses in growing and is driven to make an impact in the world. www.realsistersrising.com