Monday 1st to Friday 5th February is International Networking Week!
I founded Gossip Gals Networking because I really wanted a place for women in business to find support, community, and help find solutions to as many business queries as possible. In a nutshell, I want to help women succeed!
We initially held events for women in the Lancashire area, but our popularity means that we now have friendly, informal and down-to-earth events for businesswomen across the country.
There are so many benefits of professional networking. From strengthening connections to finding new ideas, tools and methods to approach problems you may encounter in your business. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to raise your profile, gain knowledge and build your confidence.
MY TOP TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL NETWORKING!
Some people are in their absolute element at networking events, whilst others may feel a little awkward and out of their comfort zone. Whatever your personality type, here are my top tips to help you get the most out of an event, and to hopefully give your confidence a little boost.
1. Don't go there just to sell!
Yes, networking events are an opportunity for you to ‘sell yourself’, but don’t go there ready to deliver a hard pitch of your products or services. Networking is about forming trust, helping each other achieve goals, and letting people know you and your business better.
2. Share your story
Briefly outline your career path, key skills you’ve picked up along the way and why you started your business. It’s an excellent way for people to get to know you, and hopefully, you’ll find some shared experiences and interests to help bolster your working relationships.
3. Actively listen to others
Networking is all about sharing. Actively listen to what others have got to say. What do they do? What issues do they have? How can you guide and support them?
4. Note everyone in your book
Make a quick note of everyone who attends an event in your notebook and jot down any questions or actions you think of, so you can follow up on them after the event.
5. Connect with everyone there on social media
After the networking meeting, remember to connect with everyone you’ve met on whichever social media platforms they use (for example, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc.). It’s a great way to expand your network, and if you do think of anything you forgot to ask them or tell them, you can easily send them a quick follow-up message. Engaging with your contacts regularly and finding opportunities to assist them helps to strengthen your relationships.
6. Message everyone afterwards
Drop everyone a quick message to say how nice it was to meet them. This is a lovely way to show others that you’re interested in them and their business. The more interest you pay to people, the more interest they’re likely to have in you!
Would you like to join a supportive and friendly network of like-minded women in business?
If you’re ready to try networking the Gossip Gals way, then come and join us at one of our upcoming meetings. All women in business are welcome!
Emma x
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