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Let’s face it. Most folks go to a networking event hoping to close new business. Is that the case with you?

If so, then you need a plan to make this happen. Simply showing up and collecting a few business cards, is NOT going to create new money in your business.

How To Network The Right Way

First, you need to research which networking opportunities are the best fit for you. Don’t just go to an event for the sake of going. Look for events, seminars, conferences, workshops, etc., that cater to your ideal client and/or individuals who could be referral partners for you.

To help you keep track of your research, I suggest you setup an account with Evernote. It’s completely FREE and you can setup individual Notebooks to keep this information organized and accessible while on the go. Plus it’s easy to update on your computer or your smartphone.

You also might look into Highrise,which is FREE (up to 250 contacts) and will allow you to keep track of your interactions with the people you meet. You can take detailed notes on each conversation and set reminders for yourself so that you remember to reach out to them and stay in regular contact.

There are other, more sophisticated systems you can use for this purpose such as SalesForce and InfusionSoft, but Highrise is a great place to start.

Last but not least, you need a follow-up system! Your fortune is in the follow-up! When you’re networking, and meet a new person, you’ve established a connection. Your goal is to turn that connection into a mutually beneficial relationship. That means you need to continue the conversation long past the first time you’ve met.

What To Include In Your Networking System

To make sure you do this, don’t unintentionally collect business cards. Develop a system that tells you exactly what to do when you meet a new person. 

Your system might include:

• Entering the person’s full contact details into your database
• Reviewing their website
• Signing up for their blog – I suggest using Google Reader (It’s FREE!) which will pull all of your feeds into one place that you can read instead of visiting each site individually.
• Connecting with them via social media •Sending a follow-up email or handwritten note
• Scheduling a follow-up appointment
• Scheduling an appointment on your calendar to check in with them a few weeks or months down the line

Have a specific series of steps to follow will make your networking time more worthwhile and get you better results. Most importantly, you will build stronger relationships. 

Keeping all of the information you’ve gathered organized is key to your being able to actually use it! And that is how you turn your networking efforts into dollars for your business.

Share Your Ideas

I’d love to hear a quick story about how networking and following-up lead to new business for you! Can you share the details with me by leaving a comment below?

 

Photo by futureshape

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