If you are like me, the thought of meeting strangers and having to appear intelligent and socially graceful at the same time will turn your stomach. That’s not what networking is about, however. Besides, to be a successful entrepreneur, networking is an activity that is absolutely crucial. I’m sure you may already have been advised over and over again, so now I’m going to repeat it, again.
Done properly, networking can help business owners build relationships with suppliers, affiliates, and best of all, new clients. As I have blogged in my previous posting, relationship building can be a cost effective marketing method during a slow economy (and the boom time, too!) The effect of six degree of separation is tested and proven. Especially in a small city like Vancouver where it’s more like four degrees of separation, you may be surprised by how the next person who will be able to hook you up with a big client just lives two doors down.
For those of us who suffer from networking anxiety, there are many books out there that will help you feel more prepared and skilled. One book I’m going to recommend is called “Worked the Pond!” The author, Darcy Rezac, discusses the concept of “Positive Networking” which will hopefully help you reconsider the notion of networking as selling.
A good way to start is to check your local event listings, find an event that will be most beneficial to your business, and grab a friend to attend with you. The more events you attend, the easier it gets.