Time and again we are reminded that “no man is an island.” A universal truth, this adage is truthfully applicable when it comes to running a business. No company can survive on its own as company owners need to synergize with other businesses to become successful in their trade. Networking is an opportunity given to entrepreneurs so they can meet like-minded individuals who can potentially help them out in their quest for success.
There are different venues where business owners can expand their network of contacts. Business meetings, conferences and similar functions are ideal venues where connections can be created. To ensure that they will be successful in making contacts, any businessman should come prepared with their contact information. The practice of sharing business cards is among the best means of reaching out to other entrepreneurs.
Successful entrepreneurs continue to highlight this pointer as an essential in expanding their network of contacts. There is no need to hire professional design companies just to come up with a professional looking business card. There are a number of business card maker that are available online and these software programs are capable of creating professional looking business cards. Always print in bulk so you’d have ample supply of business cards and you will never run out of cards to hand out, especially during networking functions.
While business card makers will do the trick, keep in mind that the card is a means for other people to get in touch with you. The next thing to do is to prepare yourself to interact with other people and to make yourself presentable, while making others feel great. How you treat your potential contacts is what would make them remember you. Be positive and open to the possibility that although the person might not be helpful to you now it doesn’t mean they should be treated with less importance.
A listening ear is an important instrument to always bring with you in these networking gatherings. You will learn a lot when you participate in listening rather than doing all the talking. By listening to what others have to say, you will know a lot of things about them and how they became successful in their trade. The 30%/70% principle is very effective where you do the talking less and do more listening while you ask questions so you can fish out tips and advice from others.
There will be a handful of people that you will meet in these networking gatherings. To ensure that you stay in touch with these potential contacts is to always make a follow-up. Never miss the opportunity to make a follow-up to these new acquaintances. A simple email message will do wonders in leaving a lasting impression to these contacts.
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