RETURN TO NETWORKING STRATEGIES

Taking Advantage of Networking Opportunities
By Terri Mrosko

How do you decide where and when to network? There are virtually endless networking opportunities out there and every person will need to decide which avenue is best for him or her in a particular situation. The keys are to not limit your possibilities and to keep expanding your circle of networking contacts.

In deciding which group or network is best for you, think about these basic tips.

1. Try out a variety of networking groups.

2. Attend meetings regularly and participate.

3. Keep your mind open to new possibilities.

4. Find ways to contribute and you will benefit.

5. Develop a 30-second commercial for your business.

6. Give it some time; it won’t happen overnight.

There are advantages and disadvantages to all networking opportunities. You need to weigh each situation carefully to assess what, if any, benefit you are receiving in exchange for your time and energy.

Advantages include expanding your resources, avoiding isolation, keeping abreast of new developments, learning about other businesses and industries, and making new business contacts.

Other advantages might include flexibility in your business relationship with others, testing out possible business alliances with low risk, relatively low-cost way to market your business and an ever-increasing potential for growing your business.

Some disadvantages or pitfalls to watch when networking is spending too much time spinning your wheels on the wrong audience, feeling uncomfortable promoting yourself or business, and no guarantees of new business.

In most every networking situation, the positive outweighs the negative.