Offline Networking Tips

Being successful in business does not solely rely on being very good at what you do. If you do not get your message across to the relevant people, or you do not have many contacts that can help build your business, it may be harder to reach your business goals.

That’s why networking is such a popular concept and so many businesses try to generate leads by taking part in networking events.

Which networking event is right for you?

Before starting networking it is important to identify which kind of networking events are right for you. There are many options out there and they all have different profiles, attendees, and goals. Among the popular choices are local chambers of commerce, industry events for professionals organised by industry bodies, alumni, and government events.

The best way to choose among the contenders is actually by attending to these events. The organisers of the networking events are happy for you to “sample” their event if you state that you are thinking of becoming a member and want to learn more about the event by attending. This would enable you to check out the event, meet with the organisers and the attendees, and let you make up your own mind. Membership would generally require an annual fee for most organisations whereas government events would be usually free to attend.

How can you differentiate yourself?

Once you choose your networking event, become regular in that network and be known as the “expert” in your field. You can enhance the “expert” position by developing ties with the organisers and the other network members. Giving out information about your industry, or even hosting an event in which you talk about your area of expertise, are some of the ways to help you become the “expert”.

Finally, always have an objective. This could be talking to certain amount of people, listening and learning the topic (if there is one), or simply having fun.

Lessons Learned:

Here are some of the Lessons learned by attending to events and reading about networking:

  1. It is not about distributing business cards, it is about building trust and relationship by getting to know more people and letting them know who you are and what you can do for them.
  2. You should listen attentively to the person you are talking with as this will lead to quality conversation which is how you get to know one another.
  3. Aim to speak with around 4-5 people but make sure this is a quality conversation in which you learn about the person you are talking with.
  4. After you’ve exchanged business cards write down the key points in the conversation you learnt about the person immediately on the back of the business card. This could be, for example, their hobbies, holidays, their business activities etc.
  5. KEEP YOUR PROMISE. If you said you would provide them with a contact, article etc, make sure you do it. If you do not, instead of letting it slip, be proactive, rectify the situation and get back to them.
  6. Keep in contact: This can be as simple as an email once every couple of months so you do not lose contact. In the email you can inform them about an event you attended, an article you read or just keep in touch. 
  7. GIVE WITHOUT EXPECTATION. Think of this as a cycle; the more you give, the more you shall receive!

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