How to Master Networking

There is hardly an entrepreneur these days that can’t afford not to be networking — especially in your first year. But when you are getting started and every new sale is so critical, it usually takes a while for people to give you a chance. However, there are some steps you can take to speed up the process and start signing customers.

First, track your referrals. If you’re going to mixers and networking events with the sole purpose of getting new clients, the process will take much longer than you want. A better approach is to go out of your way to start referring the people you meet to other people you meet or already know. Think about it like this. You can’t control how many customers you get from networking, but you can control how many referrals you give out from networking.

As a rule of thumb, I find that for every four referrals I make, I end up with at least one new customer. The reason for this is partially the ratios. It stands to reason that the more referrals you give, the more referrals you will get. But in addition to that, people look at you very differently when they see you as a revenue source than they do when they see you as someone they met at a networking function.

Another major factor in converting your networking contacts into clients is how effective your networking really is. I know many “Master Networkers.” These are people who make networking an art form. They are constantly looking to make connections and refer people they meet to other people that they already know. They don’t expect anything from your efforts, although they almost certainly get business from their networking members.

A big part of becoming a master networker is attend numerous networking events. While you’re there, practice your listening skills and become interested in what other people have to say about themselves and their businesses. The more questions you ask, the more informed you will be, and the easier it will be for you to refer your new contacts to people they should know. Remember, it’s not always about you. When you put others first, they will remember you sooner — especially when it comes to returning the favor.

“It is more blessed something to give, rather than to receive.” – The Acts of the Apostles 20:35

Let me hear from you.

This excerpt is taken from my seminar entitled Become a Master Networker. I encourage you to click here to register for my live in person Become a Master Networker seminar  on Thursday, January 19, 2023 from 9 AM to 12 noon Eastern Standard Time at Melhorn Manor in Mount Joy, PA. This event will also be available through live streaming.