How to network like an all star

Editor's Notes

1. Hello thanks for tuning in and for clicking subscribe to my YouTube channel. I’m Paul Serwin, BusinessAllStar.com and I work with small business owners & startups in addition to high-commissioned sales professionals in developing their brands in a way that drives hordes of hungry customers to their business.Recently, I sent a survey out to my customers and other business owners, and perhaps not surprisingly, the top concern that they faced was with Networking.
2. Networking can be an intimidating term when it comes to business. You’re very passionate about what you do, and you put all of your energy into developing your ideas and businesses.When it comes to networking, here are some of the top fears facing business owners and startups.Don't talk to strangers, you were always told as a kid. Now when you have to, as an adult and business owner, it's easy to put your guard up.Often at networking events you'll have to introduce yourself to a bunch of people. Gulp. Not only do you have to talk to strangers, but there might be hundreds or thousands around you. It can be pretty scary, particularly if you are more of an introvert.Sometimes it's just a good old fashioned lack of confidence that's holding you back.
3. If you want to network like an all star, or if you're trying to market your products or services you have no choice. If you plan on doing business with people, you're going to have to go and talk to people.
4. Getting quality referrals is going to be one of the best return on investments that you can get in your marketing effort. Meeting with people and get your name out there in your business community is a quick and wonderful way to build word of mouth.
5. I used to be scared to death at networking events. In fact, I used to just hide out in the corner, avoiding eye contact and hiding behind my refreshment.
6. The biggest thing standing in my way was the lack of having a game plan. I was just going to the networking events blind of any goals that I was trying to accomplish. I guess I was just showing up to show up.When I created my strategic plan, I focused on the people that I didn't want to be like. You know them, the usually the network marketers or sleazy people that aren't interested in what you do- but rather in trying to sell you.
7. I decided that my first goal was to make new connections that I could build solid relationships with. Not everybody you meet is going to be an ideal customer for you.Try to understand the needs and goals of the people you interact with. Think about the goals and values of the people you are speaking to. Do you know anybody that would be an ideal customer for **them**?One of the great things about business networking is the opportunity to be around like-minded ambitious business owners.
8. Provide Value to the GroupYou don't want to come across as self-centered or sleazy. Don't just push your business, focus on providing value. When speaking about your business, showcase the benefits that you provide to the community. How can you help the people that you meet?
9. A great way to break the social anxiety & break out of your shell at a business conference is to approach me when you see me cowering in the corner trying to hide behind my root beer. Go up to those that seem timid & get them to speak up about their business and why they came to the event. Making them comfortable is going to make you stand out from the crowd. And who knows, they might be perfect joint venture partner for you!
10. As you're speaking to people at networking events, focus on asking people questions and trying to discover how you can provide benefit to them.
11. Build a referral database. One of the most powerful ways that you can exert your influence in the business community is by being able to recommend people to one another. Try to be the resource that people come to when they have problems that they want to solve. Work on building a network of your own, where you are the connecting bond.
12. Throw your business cards in the trash. I've written a blog post about what a waste of money business cards are. But I want you to consider, what's the ROI on your business cards? Not just money wise, but with the energy and time you spend passing them out.
13. But how do people know how to contact you?Follow up with the people you meet. If you want to make personal connections, you need to keep the conversation going. Reach out to everybody that you can help & especially those that you think will be a good match for your business goals and values.
14. Next time you go to a networking event, contact the 5 most interesting people either via e-mail or phone call. (Note: A phone call is way more personal but an email may be just as effective if you can make it as personal as possible and not seem automated. Either way, do as you are comfortable.)So what do you say?Thank them for their time and try to remind them of the conversation that you had. Ask them about who their ideal clients are so that if you know them, you can send them their way.Also feel free to tell them about your ideal clients at this time. Remind them of the benefits that your business provides.If you can identify a mutual benefit of working together, offer to meet one-on-one. Start building that relationship.Super secret tip on effective networking:
15. Host your own events. Consider the benefits of if you held your own events. What would your events look like? Who would you want to be there?
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