Networking a business these days requires the help of online marketing strategies to generate leads. It can be very successful. But, the best way to create a connection is getting the most of the offline business networking techniques.

Most successful networkers, business networking is a typical social activity that entrepreneurs and business-minded people take part to transform a contact to a trusted relationship.

Well, it can be done in many fashions. In fact, you can even start networking by simply introducing yourself to a fellow business owner.

Personalised Cards

Business cards have been a part of various networking events. Until now, it is a common and effective practice to pursue.

To be successful in your networking campaign, create business cards that truly stand out. Customised it!

A traditional card template might be professional but, it can also be boring. At the end of the day, it will be just one of those cards stacked in a corner forgotten.

Hence, create a business card that rocks. Be creative. You can consider creating business cards for specific occasions. Just ensure your contact information is correct.

When making a personalised card, avoid being generic and putting a lot of contact options. A full street address will do. Perhaps, determine where you usually spend time networking your business.

Business cards represent you. Thus, make sure it best describes you.

Community Sponsoring

A great way to acknowledge you is through sponsoring a community.

It can be expensive. But, this is a starter method to build a brand awareness of your business. Sponsoring an event or a charity would suffice the needs.

Being a sponsor will definitely resulting to an inquiry. So, possible connections are being honed.

Always remember that business networking is all about how you can help others.

Word Of Mouth

Having said that word of mouth is the most effective tool in marketing a business, it is also an opportunity to get potential contacts.

Sadly, extroverts can take the most benefits of it. Meanwhile, introverts should never worry about it. Keep in mind that you are indeed good listeners.

So, using the word of mouth as an offline networking technique is still effective for you. All you need to do is start with your family and closest friends. Ask them to introduce you to their connections. Don’t hesitate to seek referrals.

Partnership Opportunities

No man is an island.

Look for a potential partner where you could both share the same thoughts on networking a business. It can be your friend, your spouse or a colleague.

This can be both beneficial for each other’s business and gain a lot of exposure to potential links.

So, try harder. Willpower is the key.

Newsletter Networking

Just like business cards, newsletter networking is amongst the most effective technique. Create a network and encourage the community people to sign up for your newsletter.

This will give you an opportunity to promote yourself on how you may be able to help them.

But take note, do not sell anything. Build a solid relationship first so you can be trusted.

Offline Networking – The Key To More Leads And Sales

Even before the innovation of technology, offline networking has been widespread to the business industry.

Today, networking is elevated. It offers a wide array of options through online networking. But, offline networking can provide real world relationships.

Optimise your business networking strategies with these basic tips.

Be Yourself

You don’t have to be a power networker. Be yourself, smile and take a deep breath.

Regardless if you are an introvert, ambivert or extrovert, it would be easier to start a conversation if you are who and what you are.

For newbies, this might be an overwhelming challenge. It cannot be denied that most people hated networking because they started it wrong.

Find a networking event where you can easily relate. It can be related to your industry, scope of work, or role in the society.

Networking is not just for the entrepreneurs, it is for everyone who wants to offer help. In return, these people will provide help to you as well.

Don’t Be Too Pushy Or Too Shy

It is understandable that introverts are too shy to accommodate people, whilst, extroverts have extra energies to make conversations all people in the room.

The right way to do an effective networking is not about quantity or how many business cards you have collected. It also doesn’t matter if you have talked to all people in the event or you only talk to one person.

Although these are considered potential contacts but, not all of them can be converted into connections.

So, forget the idea of being shy and go for it. Find that person whom you are comfortable with. For extroverts, don’t be too pushy. Learn to listen and let others speak.

Smile And Never Forget Your Business Card

Offering a smile to everyone enables good rapport. It is an act of dependability. People will definitely remember you.

Never forget your business cards as well. That is the only way they can get in touch with you. To have a successful exchange of cards, ask theirs first as this will initiate changing of business cards as well.

Networking need not be complicated. It is just like a process of finding a new friend.

An Integration: From Offline To Online Networking

Maximising your offline networking technique will never be complete without an integration of online networking.

Online networking also provides great impact to your business. How will you do it?

Once you have done all offline techniques, make use of the internet. Social media has the ability to target a specific audience in a wider geographical location. Hence, you will have bigger opportunities for networking your business, too.

One of the most important roles of online networking is that you can make follow-ups to your offline connections. Surely, you can always ensure that business networking works in both ways.

 

Sources:

HOW TO: Get Most Out Of Offline Networking Events, Mashable.com

Five Offline Marketing Techniques that can Really Pay Off, Creativeguerillamarketing.com

What Offline Networking Means for Online Brand Success, Spreaker.com