Why is networking important

Hi There,

I recently completed an online interview at www.beltwaynetworking.com and thought that you would enjoy - and profit from - the discussion.

Q: In today's business world, why is Networking important? There are 3 reasons why networking is important: (1) Networking is an important way to develop contacts that you might not be able to meet by cold calling. If you can develop a personal relationship with prospects before you pick up the phone to call them, they are more likely to be receptive to a meeting. (2) Networking also benefits you because you meet people who can introduce you to other decision makers. (3) Finally networking is beneficial because it enables you to build a network of referrals and introductions for your clients. If you can help you clients meet the people they need to grow successfully, you will encourage repeat business and referrals.

Q: When you network, how important is to set personal goals and expectations? Each time you go to a networking event you set a goal to accomplish. That goal should be the number of contacts you wish to make, As long as its 1 or more - you have a great goal! Don't be too hard on yourself about the number of people you meet at an event, and always make sure you are being realistic.You can't go to an event with 50 attendees and expect to collect 35 business cards! Sometimes, all it takes is meeting 1 super connection and the event has been worthwhile for you.Your primary goal should always be to attend the event and meet new people. Connecting with others you have not seen in a while is a useful goal as well if you know that those connections can potentially bring you business in the future I suggest setting a goal for the number of events with specific associations you will attend each month or quarter. The best approach is to pick one networking group that your prospects will attend - so you can network for new clients - and 1 event with your peers attending - so you can network with others like yourself. Networking with your peers helps you improve your skills and offers you invaluable ideas to use in your job.

Q: If you could share one piece of advice you have learned to make networking more effective, what would it be? I like to go to networking events alone because it forces me to meet new people. If you go with friends or colleagues, you will be tempted to hang out with the people you know.

Q: Who or what has had the biggest impact on your networking and how did it impact you? Being in sales for the last 15 years has had the biggest impact on my networking. Every significant sale I have won was the result of a connection I established at a networking events
including trade shows, industry events and dinner parties. One year at Engage, the two most significant clients came as a result of me networking with my neighbors at home! You never know who has the power to bring you business. As a result, you must always be prepared to network!

Q: Where can we find you networking? I network professionally with my peers at the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (CAPS) and the National Speaker Association (NSA). I will also be networking at educational events this year such as the Dan Kennedy Super Conference in St Louis and many SMEI events (Sales and Marketing Executives International). I hope to see you there!