Networking, the word brings up so many connotations. For some, an excellent way of meeting potential business prospects; for others, early morning commutes and fried breakfasts. Whichever way you swing it, 2021 really should be the year you start focussing on networking. With networking groups now meeting online, the commute is reduced, the breakfast is whatever you want it to be, and you can still keep your pyjama bottoms and slippers on whilst chatting business. Networking is the odd anomaly to the pandemic; it’s made business connections simpler.
So, why should you embrace virtual networking?
Zero travel time
Well, unless you count the journey to your sofa. We’ve all had to embrace working virtually, and that should be something that you use to your advantage. If you can Zoom with friends and family from far-flung corners of the globe, why not do the same with businesses? Utilising technology provides the potential to chat with businesses that you would previously have had no access to. For example, a Kent based networking group that one of our clients is a member of recently welcomed a new member from Mumbai; borders and time zones are now inconsequential.
There are networking groups that are just right for you
Just like buying a suit, there is a networking group that will fit you perfectly. Some people work well in BNI, their local chamber of commerce, or the FSB; for others, there are groups like The Sports Business Club, Little Blue Square, Business Buzz, or BoB. Having virtual access provides you with the opportunity to visit groups and find the best fit.
So, you’ve found the networking group that fits you and your business; how do you make the best of it?
Turning up is just the start
You turn up, do your 60 seconds, listen to all the other 60 seconds, and then sit back? No.
Networking is a way of getting to know other businesses and to connect with their networks. So, aside from brewing a coffee and opening your laptop, set up 121 Zoom meetings with other businesses and have a chat with them. Think about who you know who could help them and learn about their business. Don’t forget that reputation is earned, so don’t expect referrals if you aren’t prepared to do the same.
Engage between meetings
Networking isn’t just about turning up every week or two weeks for an hour; it’s about engaging with other businesses. So, connect with them on social media and arrange chats and catch-ups. You may not necessarily get along with everyone that you meet, but there will be people that you really want to spend more time with. A word to the wise, though access to social media feeds does not equate to permission to spam; treat your connections with respect.
The NAMA team (and our network) attend multiple business networking groups. If you’d like to embrace virtual networking, get in touch, and we’ll show you the ropes.
