LogoMotive July 2006

Networking

So…..…Who do you know?????

By Allen Lifton

How’s business???

How often are we asked that? Or how often do we use it, as a means to initiate business conversation?  Is there a good answer? Is there a right answer?  Is there a best answer?  Obviously, depending on what line of business you are in, the answer may vary based on the time of year, the economy, and many other variables.  While there are many, many answers to the question, probably the safest, and most optimistic answer is: Business is good, but it could be better!

So the bigger question is…How can you make your business better?

Again, there are many answers.  Do you try: phone soliciting, cold calling door to door, direct mail programs, advertising on radio or television, advertising in magazines and/or local circulars, joining a chamber of commerce, and so many more ways to try to grow your business. (note: I won’t even mention marketing pieces and promotional products here!!)

How about an even better question… Who do you know?

About two years ago, through the advice of a friend/client (Dan Sherbin of Exercise Warehouse), I reluctantly attended a meeting for a networking group.  I figured that I had my own business, I had plenty of clients and prospects to call on, and wasn’t really looking forward to meeting with others to discuss my business.  So, as a favor to my friend/client (Dan Sherbin at Exercise Warehouse), I attended the meeting just to see what it was all about.  It turned out to be a favor to myself, as I joined the Partners For Success Chapter of Business Network International (BNI) at that meeting!  The dynamics of a networking referral group can also do wonders for you and your business.  While all of the above mentioned ways and means of building your business can work, the power of networking is endless!

Whether you wish to try a networking group or not, I strongly encourage you to practice networking at any and every opportunity.  While prospecting may produce orders and/or clients, networking establishes relationships.  Business relationships may help you to generate more business than you’ve ever imagined.  It may take time to establish sound business relationships, but once you have them, they may provide you with referrals for many years to come! 

Ask yourself: Who do I business with?, and Who refers me business?   There are your first opportunities to begin your networking.  These are people that already know you, trust you, and admire your work!!!  As an example, in your line of work, if you get several referrals from a widget manufacturer, start asking your friends, relatives, and business contacts…Who do you know that is in widget manufacturing?   If  you do a lot of  business with families that are moving or relocating… ask your friends, relatives, and business contacts…Who do you know that owns a moving company???  It is that easy, and extremely rewarding!  I encourage you to give it a try.

If you click here, Networking Chapter Partners For Success, this link will take you to the networking page of my website.  There you will see the types of people, and businesses that are enjoying the benefits of a networking group.  If you would like an introduction to any of them, please feel free to contact me.  If you think that this type of networking would be of interest to you, please contact me, and I will give you the information so that you may attend our next meeting.  If the business category that you are in is currently filled, and you have interest, you may attend one of our meetings, and we can help refer you to another chapter that will have an opening for your profession.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I look forward to discussing how networking can be of be of benefit to you and your business.

By the way…who do you know???

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