Business networking events are a great way to build your contacts and increase your business. However, you need to be sure to do more than just show up if you want to get the most out of them. Here are a few simple ideas to help you get more from the business networking events you attend.
First of all, you should be genuine and honest about your business. People respect honesty and genuineness, and you will gain their trust if you have these qualities. If you don’t, others will pick up on it and be less willing to do business with you. Some people seem to have the mentality that honesty and sales are not entirely compatible. This is a very short sighted mentality. Business is all about building trust and relationships. You cannot do that successfully in the long run without honesty.
When you are meeting others at networking events, you should first focus on how you can help them. Take the time to listen to them and understand their business. Try to think of ways you can give them referrals, rather than thinking of how they can bring you business. If you help them build their business, you will earn their trust and they will feel compelled to...