Who are you on the networking scene?
Posted By Amanda Collins on March 21, 2009
As a business owner, it’s imperative to market your business. Networking is a low-cost or free way to meet movers and shakers and get the word out about your business. Naturally, there are many ways to go about networking – some good, some not so good – but the most important thing to know is what you do and the value you offer potential clients.
Networking events are full of business owners and decision makers, many of whom have overlapping businesses. So how do you differentiate yourself so people remember you at the end of the event? The key lies in sharing with others who you are for them. If you’re a financial advisor, Realtor, or mortgage professional, it’s likely there will be a few other folks in the room who do the same thing – and are looking for the same clients. As you’re meeting people and say what you do, many will stop listening when they hear the same thing they’ve heard three other times already in the past 20 minutes. So, instead of saying what you do, share how you can help others.
No matter what your profession, there is a way to differentiate yourself at a networking event. To think of your best approach, consider some of the following points:
• Who is your target audience?
• What value do you provide?
• What excites you about what you do?
• Can you tie something in to the name of your company or your name?
No matter what you do, remember to share who you are (in their eyes) and how you can help others. That will truly differentiate you and your company among your competition.