Networking is an activity that has tons of use to a business. It’s something every business owner should engage in if they want an understanding of the world around them, of the industry and the links throughout it. But you shouldn’t go networking without a clue about what you’re stepping into. To get the most out of it, you’re going to need the following things.
An aim
It’s a good idea to have some picture of what you want to accomplish at the events you’re attending. As with everything, if you narrow your focus, you tend to see better results. There’s nothing wrong with going to an event just to hear a talk or to learn something new. But if you have something you really want, such as information on the industry space at large, other key events or opportunities you’re missing, or potential partnerships with other businesses, then it can make it a lot easier to spot those who could be of most use to you.
An offer
If you’re going into an event to ask for something, then you had better have something to offer in return. For instance, if you’re looking for a collaborative marketing partnership with local businesses, then you already know that you have your own platform and audience to offer to potential partners. Or perhaps you have a large social following that another business owner could benefit from by providing you with materials for a promotional effort. Don’t go in asking for things empty handed if you want to build an effective business network. If you’re targeting people at networking events as potential leads, then make sure you have a broad pitch prepared for that market.
A brand
Learning how to present yourself and your ideas with some appeal is an important part of winning other potential contacts and customers. It’s good to be backed up by a little branding, too. The right presentational tools like business cards, even a pamphlet or two could help you quickly back up any of your claims and can impress with a well-designed brand. It’s also an easy way to make sure they can follow up after the networking event is over.
A bit of intel
Most networking events get a bit of buildup before they start. Some event listings sites include the option to make it public whether or not you’re going. You should also look at the hosts of the site, see if they’re using a hashtag or see who is active with them on social media. This can help you gather intel on who exactly is going. It won’t be comprehensive, but it can help you pick out a few priority targets to start talking to when you get there. There’s plenty of value to striking up conversations organically with people at such events, but if you can pick out a few targets then you can make a much better use of your time.
Know what the event and its attendants have to bring to the table and what you should bring as well. There’s nothing wrong with attending a networking event purely to learn and engage in the experience, but you can get so much more than that if you work for it.