How to Create an Action Plan for Networking With Business Professionals

It is easy to meet new business contacts through networking.

The popularization of the Internet, in the mid-1990s, made it possible for business networking organizations to form and thrive. Mass mailing could be done via email in a few minutes at no cost, organizations maintained their own informational websites and online news lists announced events to thousands. This changed business development forever. Vital business contacts are now made face-to-face at industry networking events, unlike before when cold calls and letters established first contact. Many people are still learning how to network efficiently because it requires an organized approach and determined follow-up.

Instructions

1. Identify networking groups in your area. Many of these announce their meetings online on MeetUp.com or can be found by searching online for industry networking events for your particular industry.

2. Develop an elevator pitch that, in one or two minutes, tells the person you meet exactly what you do and what you are looking to accomplish at the event. An example of a good elevator pitch is: "I am a startup consultant. I take companies from idea to IPO and provide corporate advisory in investor relations and SEC compliance. I am here looking for funding contacts and companies that need me."

3. Attend networking events. Effective networking takes time and effort --- it is common for business development people to stop in at several networking events each week. Attend as many of these events as you can.

4. Collect business cards from everyone you talk to, noting on each card where you met and what you talked about. Wear your name tag on your right shoulder so people can read your information while shaking your hand.

5. Keep in touch. Those business cards that you collected are valuable. As soon as you get home, or first thing in the morning, send a quick email to each person saying how delighted you were to meet them and mention the business information you exchanged. Call a few days later to further your discussion or introduce a new topic such as "Do you happen to know anyone who needs ...?"

6. Apply the above process to networking online. LinkedIn.com, Plaxo.com, Facebook.com are all places where you can meet potential business prospects. Join the interest groups, ask and answer questions. Others will interact with you, presenting the same opportunity found at networking events.

Tips & Warnings

• Carry at least 50 business cards with you at all times. At networking events, put your cards in one pocket and collect cards in the other pocket. Also keep a pen handy so you can make notes on each card as you collect it. You will notice others at the event doing this, so don't be shy.

• Remember your goal in attending networking events. You are there to identify and establish face-to-face contact with potential business prospects or people who can introduce you to business prospects. Do not drink too much or spend all your time talking about extraneous subjects, and do not feel you must remain at the event until the end. Experienced networkers arrive early and leave early.

References

• CIO.com: How to Network