Networking at the Speed of Right

The value of networking has been proven time and again, but just meeting people or handing out business cards are no longer going to cut it. To take full advantage of meet-and-greets, networking events and impromptu encounters, heed some advice from Eric Jackson, chief message officer at Verispect Marketing.

“Why should I consider networking in this digital, right-now, mobile-social world we live in these days?” It’s a question you may be asking yourself, and a very good question to ask.

You are probably not hoping that networking could change your life as you know it. As a business professional, the bottom line is you want business development results. “How do I grow my business?” is your most common question. Below are some simple strategies to maximize your networking success.

They keys are time, place, and consistency. The great results we are all looking for don’t just happen with a single effort. You really know that it will take a committed set of efforts and resources invested repeatedly over the life of your business. Approach your networking efforts with the same commitment and strategy.

Years ago a mentor said the biggest impact to my next “five year plan” would be the people I associate with and what information I feed my mind. Through professional business networking, you will not only be introduced to the people and information that can help you get business done now, but more importantly you can systematically build your network to leverage your future successes. And yes, I can definitively tell you that networking has changed my life for the better, personally and professionally!

Here are some simple strategies to improve your networking success at the right place and time:
Actively build relationships in three groups:

1. Chamber of Commerce
2. Community or Philanthropic Organization
3. Business Referral Performance

Surround yourself with people who are:

1. Focused on SMART results (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound)
2. Creating synergistic opportunities
3. Committed to continuous improvement
4. Committed to giving back

Two Great Books to Read:

1. Never Eat Alone - And Other Secrets of Success, One Relationship at a Time, by Keith Ferrazzi
2. The 29% Solution - 52 Weekly Networking Success Strategies, by Misner/Donovan

Look at your networking as a business - which must be inspired, cultivated and worked at - and you'll be surprised at how it profits you.

Get Connected
Verispect Marketing
www.verispectmarketing.com

This story, written by Eric Jackson, is part of the Chamber's monthly Business Driver email. To sign up for any or all of the Chamber's monthly email communications, click here. Follow Eric on Twitter at @VerispectMrktg.