NetworkingWhat is it?

It’s Kind of Like Dating

Social Capital

It’s comprised of your ideas,knowledge, resources andconnections.

It’s a Process

Your USP …Unique Selling Proposition

The Plan

You need one!

Where Do You Go?Industry-specific groups

Your client’s industry, not necessarily yours

General business groups, chambersCommunity & Service GroupsBusiness Referral Groups

Not Sure Where to Start?

Who are my best prospects?Where can I meet them?Whom do I want to meet?

“Who Wants to Date a Square?”(The 3 bases of networking)

What

Graphic: Diana Lowe/ Switched on Development

2nd BASE

What

How

Graphic: Diana Lowe/ Switched on Development

3RD BASE

What

How

Why

Graphic: Diana Lowe/ Switched on Development

The Date(aka The Networking Event)

The Do’sHave a proper handshake – firm and confident,

with eye contact.Smile and be friendly. People mirror facial

expressions.Be a host and not a guest.Remember people’s names.Have two or three questions you can ask

people if conversation lags.Listen!Be bold, not pushy.Have fun!

Don’tsDon’t drink too much. Alcohol is NOT a

requirement. Remember, two drinks is always the maximum!

Don’tsDon’t text, talk on the phone, or check your

e-mail. If you must use your phone, excuse yourself from the event.

Don’t be distracted. Focus on the conversation.

Don’t greet someone with your business card.Don’t criticize, condemn or complain.Don’t invade personal space.

Don’t turn your “date” into a psychotherapy session…

Giver’s Gain®

The “How Can I Help?” approach

The Morning After….follow upTriage your cards and connections from the

event the night before.

WORK Your Database!Enter EVERY contact into your database.Include not just contact information,

but details you have learned about the person & their business.

Make a list of 50 people you want to stay connected with. Make sure you contact them regularly.

You need to work to stay TOP OF MIND!

© 1996-2011 All Rights Reserved.ProPlanet Internet Solutions, Inc.

On-Line NetworkingAn important component that builds visibility

and credibility.Be careful what you put out there.

On-Line CommunitiesWhere does your target audience network on

line?

Staying Engaged

Network Solutions® Small Business Success Index™ study:

Turn an Intangible into a Tangible

Thank YouSujata & Vera