Effective networking is a must for any business owner looking to grow their business. Yet far too often people don’t take networking seriously or do it effectively.

You want to be an expert networker because otherwise it is a big waste of your time and money. When you join a networking group, make sure it’s for the right reasons and that you follow these 10 strategies for success. You’ll reap the benefits of adding potential customers to your client’s database, make good friends and even find mentors yourself.

1. Choose the Right Group: Make sure you are visiting or joining a group who has people who need what you’ve got, or know others that do. You want to carefully consider the reason the group gets together and see if it’s a fit for your overall business goals, as well as your personal values. Groups not only have different member databases, but they also have different personalities, and you want to make sure it’s a good fit for you.
2. Show Up & Be Involved: Far too often people invest in joining a group, but place attending it on a regular basis low on the priority list. In a networking group, you definitely give what you get, so regular attendance is a must. Join the leadership group or offer to teach a segment on an area where you excel.Being seen as a leader lends credibility to yourself and that makes you attractive and trustworthy to others.
3. Master your Elevator Speech: Be sure you can confidently and clearly speak about the value and benefits of your product or services. Don’t be afraid to read from notes to keep you on track. Having a “call to action” encourages the listener to take the next step to get in touch with you.
4. Be Yourself: The world is made up of many different personalities, and the people you attract will be drawn to you because of who you are, your personal values and individuality. Use your gifts of humor, kindness, sincerity, wisdom etc. as your assets and don’t shy from shining your own light.
5. Give First: Nothing is more of a turnoff than having someone push themselves on you to buy from them. Sales are built on relationships and relationships are created by getting to know each other. Asking open-ended questions of others, “why did you choose your business name, how did you get started in your field, what are some of your challenges?” will open up a dialogue to get to know one another and how you can be or service to them. Remember the “Give to Get” Golden Rule.
6. Ask for What you Want: Knowing how another networker can help you will allow you to be prepared for that question. Is your goal to invite them to an open house, an upcoming workshop or call you for a complimentary consultation? Be clear with your requests, you don’t get what you don’t ask for.
7. Be Sure to Follow-Up: The initial meeting is just the beginning, and rarely is a place of sale. It’s after the meeting and what you do with your contact’s information that is critical. Be sure to let your contact know you’d like to enter their information in your client database to keep in touch with them, and with their permission, start a “keep in touch” system to nourish the relationships.
8. Develop the Relationship: Remember it takes 7-10 times for a potential client to hear from you in order to gain trust and credibility and for them to want to do business with you. Out of sight means out of mind. Whether it’s through a monthly newsletter or email series, be helpful to your contacts and they’ll remember you in turn when it’s time for them to purchase what you’ve got.
9. Arrive Prepared: Rushing in the door disheveled at the last minute won’t earn you any points. Arrive on time, prepared with plenty of business cards, and take extra time to greet others and make your guest feel comfortable. People buy from those they like, know and trust!
10. Enjoy Yourself! Networking can be really fun and rewarding, and the relationships can enhance your life tremendously personally and professionally. Make it a habit to show up with positive energy and you’ll reap great rewards.