Maximizing Your Networking Potential

Three years ago, I stumbled into the world of networking. Before that, I had run a successful direct sales business solely based on cold calling and texting. Wow, what a difference networking makes! Over time, I have developed systems to stay organized and maximize my time while building relationships and working. This blog post will provide some tips on how to handle all the business cards you receive and optimize your networking efforts.

While some argue that business cards are outdated and suggest using QR codes instead, I believe that relying solely on digital means expecting someone who has never met you to remember your name or business to find you in their phone’s contacts. A physical business card can jog a memory. There have been instances when I received a call after a year because a card was left on a desk or in a drawer until the contact needed my services. Business cards can be a powerful tool in maintaining connections over time.

At most networking events, I use a pocket system. I keep cards from people I want to connect with and potential clients in one pocket and cards from less relevant contacts in another pocket.

This system allows me to easily sort cards after the event and begin appropriate follow-up emails and calls. As you network, you will build relationships with people. The essence of networking is that you will do business with people you know, like, and trust, and vice versa. To keep track of these connections, I carry a portable business card book. This way, when I am in conversation, I can refer business to others. Over time, I have become known as the person who "knows people," and my network often reaches out to me before looking elsewhere. This also creates opportunities for my own business when they need my services.

Let’s dive into the specifics of my business card organization. I keep a portable card holder in my bag with the companies I refer the most. Some are from networking groups I regularly attend, and others are from various networking events around town. I often jot a tiny note on the cards to remind me where I met them. I also keep two copies of each business card—one to give out and one to remind me to reconnect with the business. My second business card holder is for prospective future clients. If I meet a company that needs my services immediately, I use this holder for easy follow-up. The third card holder is a box on my desk, organized alphabetically, for cards that don’t fit into my portable book but might be useful later.

Maximizing your networking time also involves batching your time effectively. I often meet at coffee shops for one-on-one chats. Once I book one appointment at a location, I try to fill the rest of the day with meetings at the same location. For instance, if I’m meeting a client from Mechanicsburg, I choose Rise Bake Shoppe in Mount Joy and schedule subsequent meetings there. This strategy reduces driving time and dead time between appointments.

To further optimize your time, use a free booking app like Calendly. Including the link in your email signature allows you to easily schedule meetings via text or email and offers the option for virtual meetings. I use the paid version to manage multiple calendars, enabling me to set up in-person meetings in different locations on specific days. This ensures efficient time management and maximizes my networking efforts.

Networking is a powerful tool for growing your business. By staying organized and managing your time effectively, you can build strong relationships and become a go-to person in your network. Happy networking!

Discover more from Proven Success Skills From Business Women at Romeo Network’s "Proven Success Skills From Business Women: Networking Mastery Forum," on June 27th. This event will be an invaluable opportunity to discover more networking and business tactics from experienced business women and expand your own professional network.

About the Author

Jacquelynne Hess serves as the Director of Development at Unfair Advantage Marketing Company, where she specializes in creating and managing magazines tailored for high-end, influential neighborhoods nationwide. With a keen focus on fostering strong community ties and cultivating meaningful partnerships with advertisers and residents, Jacquelynne has successfully grown her business. Her expertise lies in understanding the unique needs of these affluent communities and delivering exceptional content that resonates with their lifestyles and interests.  Learn more.