An interesting thing about business networking, it that if you do it enough you are bound to start running into people you have already met. For some people, this can be a gift to have someone you recognize and feel comfortable approaching, for others it’s frustrating to meet the same people over and over.
Either way of thinking, make the most of the event by taking that relationship to the next level. Jan Kopple had a great suggestion “I find out one new thing about someone I already know”. It is so easy to see someone familiar and chat about the information you already know, or to avoid them in hopes of meeting fresh leads, but it is not really helpful.
I can’t count how many times I have known someone for quite a while before we discovered how we could help each other. To speed up the process, don’t stop at asking for referrals. Take a look at this great list from Hazel Walker of the Networking Strategist Blog:
- You could put an article about my services in your newsletter, I will do the same for you.
- You could invite me to a networking opportunity that you may be going to.
- You could nominate me for an award it would build my credibility
- You could attend an event with me; it would create visibility for both of us.
- You could display my information or products in your office or store.
- You could mention me in your blog.
- You could read my blog and comment, and then link to my blog.
- You could introduce me to your network
- You could write an article for my newsletter
- You could invite your best client to our chapter so I could meet them.
- You could WRITE me a great testimonial that I could used in my materials.
- You could put my brochure or information in your client mailings.
Having some ideas about what you could ask to learn more and get more out of networking makes it much easier to respond. Not everyone will be comfortable recommending a prospect right away, but most people are happy to help in smaller ways to get to know you better.
Appreciate this list and reminding us of them. You’re reminding us about taking genuine interest in other people, and that is also a good-thing. Thanks!
Thanks for the feedback. Glad you like it – I am always open to topic suggestions.