Get More Confident in Networking by Knowing What You Have to OfferIf you feel uncomfortable, or lack confidence in networking, perhaps you simply aren't clear on what you have to offer. Here are nine questions that you should consider. Once you understand yourself, you can better help others network with you in a... | | |
I know why you want to network with me: I'm funny, cool, rich, and have a million friends. Okay, I'm not rich and don't have a million friends, but I'm popular because I give first, I always seek to refer business, and I'm positive and upbeat.
Are you confident about your networking skills and what you have to offer? Many people aren't, even though they too have the potential to be funny, friendly, and full of ideas, resources, and referrals. They approach networking with fear and trepidation. Since networking is a vital part of any business development strategy, it's important to not let this fear hold you back from networking.
For many people, a more confident approach to networking simply requires a clearer picture of what they have to offer. Answer these questions honestly to see what positive skills you bring to the table, and where you can improve for greater self-assurance in networking.
- Are you networking to build relationships, not for prospecting?
- Do you have a clear purpose for every event you go to or action you take? (Are you looking for new contacts, deepening current relationships, finding referrals for your contacts, etc.?)
- Can you tell someone in less than 30 seconds what you do in a way that they can understand, remember, and be able to do something about?
- Are you willing to give first, without expecting an immediate and equivalent return? (Otherwise that is called selling when I expect a return in value for what I'm offering.)
- Can you clearly describe the benefits of your service or product? (This means you understand the difference between features and benefits)
- Do you have a unique or memorable persona or brand? (Make sure you don't cross the line between unique and weird. Eccentric people have a unique identity that is memorable. You want people to think of your uniqueness in a positive way.)
- Do you consider small talk as a way to learn about other people, rather than idle chitchat?
- Are you constantly seeking to provide referrals and relevant information to your network?
- Do you have a way to track and keep in touch with your contacts?
If you can answer "yes" to all these questions, you'll feel more confident when you are networking, even if you are in a room full of strangers. You'll have a clear agenda that isn't hidden and that works for the benefit of everyone. If you're uncertain or have never considered the answers to these questions, you now have a list of skills to work on. But don't wait to network until you have all the answers, this is often a work in progress. Just having some of these ideas is a good place to start and as you meet other networkers, you'll clarify your thoughts and build your confidence. Remember the saying, "do the thing and you will have the power.
MeetingWave's core mission is to help you meet new clients. For more information about what is business networking or meet people online. visit www.meetingwave.com.
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