Networking works, but it takes practice and for some people can be an utterly terrifying prospect. If networking is something which you find daunting, you may find a product-based approach easier to begin with.

Some networks are very expensive; others are free or vary low cost. Consider being part of several with clearly defined objectives for each.

One of the key benefits of networking, especially for people who are new to running their own business, or who work in an isolated working environment is the social interaction and support. If this is a benefit to you, consider having one network which you use mainly for this purpose – this allows you to be vulnerable, naive and frustrated if you need to be, but without having to worry about the impact on your brand.

Ideally we recommend that this is an informal network – a group of friends who run their own businesses but aren’t either direct competitors or potential clients.

Then, decide which of your products is the best fit for each network. Different networkers tend to have quite distinctive characteristics in terms of the type and size of business who attend, and in turn the type and size of the business who the members can and will refer on to.

Concentrating on the right product for each network has a number of advantages:

You can refine your introduction, the benefits of your product and what you can offer; without having to use the same rehearsed introduction each time. You can quickly establish a clear identity and reputation.

Give it a try! Life is never clean-cut, you’ll find that you’ll still be talking about other aspects of your business, but having a single product focus can make getting started in networking a more productive and less daunting prospect.

 

If you want help to find, try or choose networks, or with deciding on your approach for a particular group, drop us a line at tellmemore@rubystarassociates.co.uk/dev and we’ll see if we can help!