1. You can network face-to-face at social events, conferences and through industry associations. You can also network online, through sites such as L and Facebook. The more ways you can network, the more your business will benefit.
1.1. Personal networks can provide important referrals, and people who can offer information and often developmental support, such as coaching and mentoring.
1.2. Strategic networks provide opportunities to look at the bigger picture through mentoring, or simply give a different perspective on your organisation.
1.3. Networking is about interacting with people and engaging them for mutual benefit.
2. Networking opportunities
2.1. If you own a small business, networking can be an inexpensive way to promote your business. Through networking, you can discover new opportunities, build your customer base and find new suppliers and staff. You may also find investors and business partners.
2.1.1. Conferences and events Get into the habit of regularly attending breakfasts, seminars, lectures and lunches that are held by various groups. These events are usually advertised in newspapers, business and trade magazines or online. You can invite others in your field or from your local area to attend as well.
2.1.2. Business contacts If you're too busy to attend lots of events, focus on developing relationships with just 3 or 4 key people. Strengthen your relationship with contacts you have a good rapport with. Consider contacts who might face similar challenges to you and work out how you might be able to help each other.
2.1.3. Industry associations It's a good idea to join networking groups run through industry associations. Joining these groups will help you keep up to date with changes in your industry, and will get you invited to networking events.
2.1.4. Networking groups Joining networking groups will give you a chance to meet people from a wide range of small- to medium-sized businesses. Contact your industry association and business contacts or search online, for example on the Meetup website, to find out a networking group that suits you.
2.1.5. Online networking Connecting with your industry online will help you keep up to date with events. You can also sign up to online newsletters from industry associations and other businesses and receive regular updates about events and opportunities.
2.2. Who should be in your network There are some simple questions you can ask when deciding who should be in your network. • Who can help me? • Who knows what is going on? • Who already has strong networks? • Who are the critical links in the supply and information chain? • Who are the high profile people?
3. Planning your networking
3.1. It's a good idea to make networking a regular part of running your business. Plan your networking activities and devote a certain amount of time and money to them. Spending money on networking can be more effective than spending it on advertising, as it is more personal and targeted.
3.1.1. Prioritising your time Consider all your business activities and work out how much time you can realistically devote to networking. Allocating yourself a certain amount of time will make your networking more enjoyable, as you won't feel rushed.
3.1.2. Talking about your business Before you go to a networking event, think about what you want to say about your business. Research the people and businesses you'd like to be introduced to and make sure you're prepared when you meet them.
3.1.3. Business cards Have some business cards made that you can give to people when you are talking about your business.
3.1.4. Following up It's important to follow up with people soon after you meet them so that you are still fresh in their mind. Make sure you deliver on any promises you make, whether it's a phone call or a special offer. Keep in regular contact with people you meet to build your networks
3.1.5. Develop a system Consider creating a database of contacts, including details of where you met them and what they do. Updating the database regularly will help you keep track of your contacts and ensure that you are familiar with developments in their business. This can help you recognise new opportunities and develop your business relationships
4. Networking events
4.1. • Arrive early and join in groups as they are forming. Meeting one person at a time is often less daunting than meeting a crowd.
4.2. • Give your card to people you have engaged with, but keep in mind that networking is about building relationships, not just handing out business cards. If you have made a promising connection with someone, they may prefer to add your details to their phone than take a card.
4.3. • Dress appropriately by wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a practical bag or briefcase. Make sure you can access your business cards easily.
4.4. • Follow up all contacts made by email, phone, newsletter or make arrangements to meet again (e.g. for coffee).
4.5. • Avoid using gimmicks to get noticed. They might help people remember you, but it could be in a negative way.
5. Using your networks
5.1. Your business networks can help you in a wide range of ways. Through your networks, you can raise your profile, share ideas, and find out about innovations that may stimulate your business. Remember to look outside your industry; it is amazing how often an existing technology used within another industry is applicable to your business.
5.1.1. Personal contacts and social events Networking through friends and family can be a great way to establish strong business relationships.
5.1.2. • Be sensitive to confidentiality when sharing ideas and discussing issues with another business. • When you contact other businesses in your network, try to work out who the key people and decision makers are. Talking to the right person will save you time. • Keep your networking focused on constructive matters rather than on negative ones. • Consider your areas of expertise. You may be able to offer support and advice to other businesses, or speak at events on the topic. This can help raise your profile and increase your visibility. • Think about the long term, networking is about building relationships, not immediate pay-offs. • Connect more frequently with the people most important to your business. For example, make contact daily with those you rely on for day-to-day work, weekly with those in your supply chain, and less often with your broader contacts.