The power of networking for your business and how to mingle amongst the elite

18 Apr The power of networking for your business and how to mingle amongst the elite

The growth of networking and networking events is now at fever pitch and is seen by many as an essential marketing tool not to be taken lightly. Effective networking practices can work on a number of levels and plays a significant role in our daily lives.

As brands, products, services and organisations compete to get ahead of the competition networking has never been more important. Whether you like networking or not, it’s a very powerful exercise if utilised in the right way. More people are turning to this simple but effective method of marketing which is now a global phenomenon.

So, if you have a company soiree coming up or maybe you have your mind set on attending an art exhibit or rooftop meeting. Perhaps you have been invited to an exclusive party for a charity event? Whatever the case may be, don’t panic, you’re in such a great position.

Your event or meeting is a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and to discuss the brand of you. Remember, networking is a fantastic tool and can be even more powerful when you know how to use it.

We recently held a ‘Networking Event’ to coincide with the Digital Shoreditch Festival and the Clerkenwell Design Week in London.

The aim of the event was to bring together the world of creative, media, design, PR, digital, branding, events, charity and corporate professionals to connect with each other and establish relationships.

The philosophy was simple, meet, greet, eat and network!

Whether you are a seasoned marketeer or completely new to the networking game the key principles and rules remain the same.

Below are just a few simple tips on how to make networking work for you, your company, product, brand or service.

Here’s how to mingle amongst the elite and make it work.

• Make sure you bring enough business cards for everyone. You don’t want to miss that opportunity due to lack of contact details.
• Wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the occasion. Be sure to see what the protocol is for the event. You do not want to dress black tie for a beach cocktail party! Get clarity on what is  appropriate for the event. Remember to wear clothes that are comfortable. You need to feel comfortable and confident at all times whilst networking, it makes such a difference.
•  Be polite and gracious. Minding your manners always goes a long way.
•  Research the individuals that you want to speak with. You never want to be in the presence of a potential connection with nothing to say. There is nothing more frustrating than awkward silence.
• Research the event itself. You do not want to feel uncomfortable because you feel like a fish out of water. If you are attending a charity event, research the charity. If you are attending a special event, research how many years the event has been established or who is on the committee.
• Get involved. Talk. Do not stand on the side watching the action waiting for someone to come over to you. That may or may not happen. You have to be an active participant if you want to get something out of the event.
• Be Yourself. You don’t have to try to be like anyone else. You are enough. Success will come to you.
• It’s not always about you, so make sure you listen as well as talk, one-sided conversations are not much fun.
• Make sure you follow up on all the business cards you receive at the event, your next piece of new business could be a business card away.
• Remember to relax and to have fun, you’ll attract so much more attention if you’re positive and a have a smile for everyone you meet.

Hope this helps and good luck with your future networking exploits!

For further tips or advice on networking, please feel free to get in touch with us – www.wonderful.uk.com

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