10 Tips for Successful Business Networking

1.Keep in mind that networking is about being genuine and authentic, building trust and    relationships, and seeing how you can help others.

2.Ask yourself what your goals are in participating in networking meetings so that you will pick     groups that will help you get what you are looking for. Some meetings are based more on     learning, making contacts, and/or volunteering rather than on strictly making business     connections.

3.Visit as many groups as possible that spark your interest. Notice the tone and attitude of the     group. Do the people sound supportive of one another? Does the leadership appear     competent? Many groups will allow you to visit two times before joining.
 
4.Hold volunteer positions in organizations. This is a great way to stay visible and give back to     groups that have helped you.

5.Ask open-ended questions in networking conversations. This means questions that ask who,    what, where, when, and how as opposed to those that can be answered with a simple yes or no.    This form of questioning opens up the discussion and shows listeners that you are interested in    thems  .

6.Become known as a powerful resource for others. When you are known as a strong resource,    people remember to turn to you for suggestions, ideas, names of other people, etc. This keeps    you visible to them.

7.Have a clear understanding of what you do and why, for whom, and what makes your doing it    special or different from others doing the same thing. In order to get referrals, you must first    have a clear understanding of what you do that you can easily articulate to others.

8.Be able to articulate what you are looking for and how others may help you. Too often people in    conversations ask, "How may I help you?" and no immediate answer comes to mind.

9.Follow through quickly and efficiently on referrals you are given. When people give you    referrals, your actions are a reflection on them. Respect and honor that and your referrals will    grow.

10.Call those you meet who may benefit from what you do and vice versa. Express that you       enjoyed meeting them, and ask if you could get together and share ideas.


source: www.businessknowhow.com