According to Wikipedia, business networking is a social economic activity by which groups of like-minded business people recognize, create, or act upon business opportunities. A business network is a type of social network whose reason for existing is business activity. There are several prominent business networking organizations that create models of networking activity that, when followed, allow the business person to build new business relationships and generate business opportunities at the same time.
This definition seems a bit scary but, I have learned there are ways to create a networking event and have an incredible turn out. Here are some key points to consider when inviting someone to a networking event.
The First Hard Part
You should always be brief, casual, specific, and enthusiastic. Being enthusiastic is very important, because if you don’t believe that the event is worth wild, those you invite won’t either. People can read your emotions based on your voice and writing style.
Never invite the same person. If someone said no once, then cross them off your mailing list completely. Make sure you invite people that you want to network with.
Use the suggested language below to get a “yes” when inviting someone to a business/networking event.
- I know you have been looking for information and options to help you solve (or find) business, I’m having a business/networking event with some industry leaders who might be able to help you with that. Interested in joining me?
- Every time I go to one of these events I think of how this could help you out. You would enjoy knowing several of theses individual and their skills. If you can join me for the event, I’ll introduce you.
- I know you are networker. Would you like to join me to meet a room full of new business contacts?
Ok, now you have gotten enough people to say “Yes”. The day of your event is here and guests are rolling in. What are you going to say to everyone? How are you going to introduce yourself and your company?
The Second Hard Part
You’ve planned an amazing event to introduce you and your company to the world. The guests have arrived and it’s time to give a welcoming address. Don’t be nervous, I have a couple of suggestions that will help you fight through it. Never overly sell yourself to the point that you’re annoying individuals. Strike up a conversation and tell your guests: what you do, how you do it and why they should chose you to do business with.
Here are five components to help you sell your business:
1. Introduction: State your name, Business name, Title, Location, i.e. landmark areas work out great.
2. Introduce the LCD (Lowest Common Denominator), break your business down to its basic component. Pick one aspect of your business that you want to talk about, what you done lately, and any successes.
3. Tell a story. Stories sells, it helps people connect with each other on a basic level. Bring life to the story, i.e. focus of who you helped, their problem or issue, what you did for them. Remember excellent customer service isn’t a selling point. Customer service should be mandatory.
4. If they aren’t interested in your service ask for the referrals of people in their industry who might be interested in working with you.
5. Close with your name and your company name. Attach a memory hook, something that’s funny that they will remember.
Theses tactics have worked for me 90% of the time. Follow these five steps and they should lead you to a successful introduction of yourself and your company. Good luck networking.
Kevin Braithwaite, Managing Director at DAMN Digital Studio LLC. As an electrical engineer, focused on the transfer of information via electronics. His clients have been everyday individuals in need of IT assistance to Darden Restaurants Co. He is constantly connected to his phone which is never out of date. He surfs app markets for fun and lectures his team members on being digital weekly.
