10 Networking Tips for Entrepreneurs

If you're an entrepreneur who gets nervous at the very mention of the word "networking," you're not alone. While many business owners love the opportunity to talk about their business, others simply don't feel comfortable walking up to complete strangers and starting conversations. The good news is that if networking is done properly, it doesn't have to be traumatic or a big waste of your time. Use these 10 tips to prepare you for your next networking opportunity.

1. Keep Networking Tools at the Ready. Keep business cards, brochures, and a carrying case full of other people's business cards with you at all times. You'll feel more confident and look more professional if you can put your hands directly on the information you need right away. Also keep a professional-looking name badge with you all the time.

2. Set Networking Goals. The next time you attend a networking event, decide on an appropriate number of people that you're going to meet. If you're feeling energetic, 15 might be an obtainable goal. If you're feeling less than bulletproof, go for a smaller number. But don't leave until you've met your goal, and get cards from everyone you meet.

3. Act Like a Host. Don't sit back and wait for people to come to you. Greet people immediately and help them meet others you know.

4. Listen and Ask. There's a reason we all have two ears and one mouth, so do twice as much listening as talking. Let the other person talk about himself first, and then share some about yourself and your business. They don't need to know your whole life story, but you also shouldn't assume that they know who you are or what you do.

5. Don't Make Deals. Networking events are not sales pitch venues. They are opportunities to build relationships and partnerships. If you want to use the connections you've made later, that's fine, but you'll find yourself a networking pariah if you use these events to close deals.

6. Refer. A good networker is looking out for the good of everyone he or she meets. This includes providing referrals to other professionals. Even if you can't provide a specific referral, at least pass on some helpful information.

7. Exchange Cards. Each time you exchange cards with someone, ask for two. One is for you to keep and one is to pass along to someone else who may be in need of their services.

8. Be Efficient. Don't spend your entire time with one person. A good rule of thumb is to spend a maximum of ten minutes with each person you talk to. And while it's tempting to cling to people you already know, drag yourself away to talk to businesspeople you've never met. If you find someone you'd like to talk with further, set up a time to get together later.

9. Use Business Cards as Notebooks. After you get a business card from someone, jot down information on the back that will help you remember who they were and what you talked about, plus any helpful information for the future.

10. Follow up. This is probably the hardest rule to follow. Given all the work you just did talking to strangers and exchanging cards, you'll be tempted to simply rest in the fact that you checked off your networking requirement for the month. Set a deadline within the next week to follow up. That way you won't keep putting it off. And follow up with any promises you made to the people you met. This goes without saying, but you'd be surprised how many business owners drop the ball.

Networking is one of the most important things you'll do as an entrepreneur. Follow these 10 tips for efficient and effective networking, and you can make it work for you!

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