PrintEmail

Seek out places to network where you will have the opportunity to spend time talking one-on-one with people, rather than just being in the same room. Here are some points to consider when you are trying to choose the most effective places to network for your business.

Address key weaknesses and opportunities
Focus on networking opportunities that will allow you to deal with one or more of the key weaknesses and opportunities in your business. For example, if your business requires you to speak effectively at public events, and you have identified this as a business weakness, then become involved in events that will provide you with

the opportunity to speak to others in a supportive environment.

Join a Toastmasters group, or volunteer for speaking engagements with small groups of people and ask for feedback on your performance. If one of your opportunities is to break into a new market sector, let’s say primary schools, then look for opportunities to become involved in your local parents’ groups or primary principals’ association.

Reach your target market
If you are looking to increase your customer base there is little point networking with people or organisations who are not your target market, or who are unable to actively channel people from your target market to your business.

Though it may ‘look good’ or make you feel good joining organisations that are perceived as ‘the right ones to be in’, they won’t ‘be good’ unless they make a positive difference to your business’s bottom line.

For example, if your target market is farmers then plan to spend your networking time involved in organisations and at places where farmers gather. It will be more effective for you to join your local Federated Farmers chapter than the local small business network (unless, of course, it is full of farmers!).

Help achieve your business objectives
Never lose sight of your overall business objectives when you are planning your networking activities. Join groups that can help you achieve your marketing and business objectives, both in the long and short term.

Where you find good support
If you are new to networking one of the best places to start is somewhere you will find good support and a ready welcome. Ask someone who is a member of an organisation you are interested in joining if they could invite you along as their guest. Or talk to business people you admire about the places they network. Ask their opinion on places they believe would be a good starting point for you to meet new customers and like-minded business contacts.

Don’t be afraid to tell people at a networking event that this is your first time at the group and that you’d appreciate being introduced to others who might be interested in what your business has to offer.