3 Tips To Be A Valuable Networking Partner
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The best way to grow your business is by networking. When you successfully network, you pave the way to mutually beneficial business collaborations.
3 Tips for Valuable Relationship Building
Ask Questions and Be Inquisitive
When networking, it is best to keep conversations flowing. Drop the small talk about irrelevant things like the weather, and start a conversation about your mutual interest. When speaking to the other person, you should ask open-ended questions. This keeps the conversation flowing.
Take some time to get to know this new lead. While speaking with them and gathering information, think about how you and this potential connection can add value to each other’s business. Make the conversation about how you can help each other out. This is much more effective than a quick introduction, handshake, and handing off a business card that they might eventually discard. You want to make sure you stick in this new connection’s mind.
Take A Lot Of Notes While Networking
How do you organize all this new information about your new connections and their business? One of the best ways to keep track of all the information you receive at networking events is by taking notes. These notes will help your future self remember pertinent details about the people you meet and their businesses.
These days, the best way to take networking notes is with a notes application on your phone. You can quickly type in important details about this new connection while the information is still fresh in your mind. Jot down a few bullet points or something interesting you learned during the conversation. For example:
Georgia Thomas:
- Met at Business Travel Show, London
- Works in Marketing at Sabre
- Raised in New York
By doing this, you can jog your memory when you reach out to reconnect with this person. You also set yourself up for a successful follow-up that is valuable and deepens your connection.
Follow Up To Confirm The Connection
After the connection is made, it is now time to implement a successful follow-up. This valuable connection will help strengthen your relationship, and it reminds the new contact who you are now in their network.
For example, if you reach out to this new person via a LinkedIn connection request, be sure to add a quick personalized note to that request. Add a detail that you had learned about this connection in the note.
Dear Mike, I hope the rest of your week went well. Congratulations on your anniversary at XYZ Corporation.
This personal touch shows that your connection means something to you. You took an interest, listened to them, and showed that you are interested in continuing the relationship.
Conclude your message with the suggestion of a connection and mention what value you can add. Including an open-ended offer of support or mutual networking support shows you want to help this connection.
If you are unsure how you can establish yourself as a business that people want to create strategic partnerships with, we can help. PS Inc. provides several network management and business networking services. Schedule a call with us today to get started.