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The 5 Cs of business networks

What’s the best way to market your small business? The best results come primarily from face-to-face business networking. As a very successful and enthusiastic networking expert, this form of marketing has been featured in several articles I have written on B2B information. However, within networks, as in all parts of the business, changes occur and you can always learn new ways to be more and more effective in the way you get your message across.

So to honor my favorite form of marketing, here are the 5 C’s of networking to help you achieve greater success:

C is to create. Create opportunities. How? Think about how you start a conversation with a new connection at an event. What do you usually ask: “What do you do?” Aren’t you totally bored with this overused network chat line? Next time you interact with a new business owner at an event, why not start the conversation with this: “Tell me about your business …” or “What challenges are you facing right now?” What recent success stories can you share? ? “These exchanges create opportunities to explore further, giving you the opportunity to learn more about how you can position your business solution.

C is for consistency. The saying, “out of sight, out of mind” rings true when it comes to networking. People who appear once or only occasionally run the risk of being quickly forgotten and / or may be considered as people who are not serious people in networks. It is true that not all styles of networking correspond to an individual’s personal choice. However, successful networking relies on strong and trustworthy relationships, which equates to consistency. Good relationships take time and effort to develop and grow. Wait once and expect instant results? You got to be kidding!

C is for collaboration. Often two heads are better than one, they say. Once you have established yourself in one or more networking groups that meet your goals, it is a positive step to explore potential collaborative partnerships. Consider bonding with other people who do what you do, perhaps with a different inclination / experience. Collaborations are ideal for expanding thinking, reinforcing support and motivation, and enhancing potential job opportunities.

C is to choose. One of my favorite things about being a freelance networker is the fact that it is my choice who I connect and work with, and it is my choice as to how often and when I connect. Choice allows you to be selective and gives you a freedom that an employed networking professional typically does not have.

C is for connector. With networking as my primary focus for marketing my services, one thing I have learned is to view networking as an opportunity to connect with others. Rather than adopting a “selfish” attitude, have a strategy for what you want to achieve, think broadly when talking to people, and consider how you can connect them with other business owners you know. When you are recognized as a successful connector, people will come to you and respect you for your knowledge, support, and expertise.

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