How to Keep Networking in a Shaky Economy

Many people are so focused on holding down their jobs during a shaky economy--that everything else gets pushed to the wayside. But networking is still important--despite a poor economy. You never know when you'll make the right connection or plant a seed for future prospects. Here are some tips on how to keep networking in a bad economy.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Switch to a low or no-cost group. While your membership to the local chamber could be an extra expense you don't need, there's no reason to give up networking altogether. Try free groups or lower-cost groups. Some networking groups meet over breakfast--a meal you should have anyway. You'll get the benefits of a networking group for less.

2. Attend an event--and use it for networking. Even if you don't want to pay membership dues, you can still network. Attend that free seminar that's going on and hand out your business card. Work up your business into the conversation. As long as you're not too pushy, people won't mind meeting you. They never know when they'll need a connection like you, so they'll probably be receptive to hearing from you.

3. 
    

   Create your own event. Take things a step further and create your own free or low-cost event. So long as you have valuable and interesting information to offer, people will want to hear what you've got to say. They'll probably enjoy finding a low- or no-cost event so they can network too!

4. 
    

   Get online. Online networking makes a difference and it's good to have your presence (that is, your profile) on sites like LinkedIn and Ryze (see Resources below). Again, you just never know what connections can arise out of these, so it's good to put yourself out there.

5. Focus your efforts. If you're job hunting, you'll probably want to network at industry-specific group events. But if you're looking to bolster your business, try a multi-industry group. Seek out networking groups online or in your local newspaper. There are plenty of opportunities to network, no matter what you need it for--and no matter what the economy does!

Resources

• MeetUp
• LinkedIn
• Ryze

[vikki9]

on 1/18/2009 Interesting networking tips. Thank you.

[nessalh19]

on 1/18/2009 Great article! It helps to remind us that without networking there is no sale!

[FranticMommy]

on 1/17/2009 I am a big advocate of networking and I beleive it is more important than ever to be visible. Good tips.

[JeanneGrunert]

on 1/17/2009 You need to network year-round, in good times and in bad. You cannot just jump in and start networking like crazy when YOU need something, like a job or a sales lead. Networking has to be done consistently and it is give and take - you give leads, as well as receive through your network.

[Quickstar]

on 1/16/2009 This is great thanks for the article. 5*