Straight Business Hustler Center: HFGH

Basic Business Networking Tips

Meet the Right People -The first step is getting in touch with the right people. Your nearest chamber of commerce is a great place to start – these organizations are designed to promote networking between local businesses. There are also a number of sales organizations that will help you connect with other sales professionals. Such professionals can help out not only with leads, but with job opportunities and sales training as well.
Social Networks - The Internet offers tremendous opportunities to set up networks. LinkedIn is a business-centric networking site that's designed to make it easy for you to get in touch with potential resources. It also hosts training materials and mentoring groups. Other well-known social networking sites, like Facebook and Twitter, are also ideal places to look for new connections. Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet people and also do some good. You can volunteer for non-profit organizations, churches, mentoring programs, community outreach programs, industry-related groups, and dozens of other local and national organizations. Volunteer positions usually require a significant time commitment, but they will also allow you to meet people you might otherwise not be able to reach and provide an easy way to build rapport with those people.
Practice Patience - It's tempting to try to sell your products to your networking contacts, especially when you're falling short of your goal for the month, but resist the urge. Making a sales pitch to a contact changes your status from 'business connection' to 'annoying salesperson.' It's fine to let your networkees know what you do and perhaps tell them a bit about your products and services, but always err on the side of caution.Once you've built a basis for your network, you can't just stop and rest on your laurels. Your contacts require the same kind of attention and give-and-take that you would provide in any relationship.