Do you have networking nous?

Networking should be an integral part of a company’s marketing strategy, since it offers a platform for decision makers to meet and grow essential business contacts.

If networking is new to you, what are the secrets of a successful networker?

Ambassadors for networking have a steady stream of helpful hints for those who want to develop productive and long-term relationships with high calibre businesses. Often just being in the company of positive and successful people can encourage you to succeed.

Diverse businesses, from physiotherapists to accountants, IT consultants to architects, are using the successful formula of allowing people to get to know, like and trust you in a supportive environment.

What are the dos and don’ts of successful networking?

Do:
• Listen
• Include others
• Be approachable
• Be on time
• Walk tall
• Arrange and accept 121s

Whatever happens, do not:
• Try and sell
• Be dismissive
• Be insular
• Be negative
• Ramble

Bear the following in mind:
Be generous – if you can help others they are more likely to help you – what goes around, comes around.
Look the part – business people won’t take you seriously unless you dress smartly.
Be interested – listen to your fellow networkers and see what you have in common – it could form the basis of a future business relationship.

Karen Tems
The Business Network