How can you effectively network when starting your career in Small Business?

Setting achievable goals is essential when it comes to networking. It not only keeps you on task but also enables you to modify your strategy according to your goals. Whether your goal is to find a mentor, increase your network, or get suggestions, networking becomes more purposeful when you have a clear objective. Additionally, it creates chances for deeper connections and collaboration.

Goal setting is something that everyone struggles with. One often gets carried away and ends up over/ underestimating oneself. The best start will be to work on projects independently or collect multiple small tasks that one would already have completed informally. Once they do that, they can structure it in a formal and presentable fashion.

Show me you know me is a great tool when researching. Trying to find something that isn’t generic you can share with the person and if you genuinely have an interest in that thing even better. It can even be so random but a great way to connect and show them that you took the time to research well

There is a saying that you are a product of 5 people with whom you interact the most. Ensure you have contacts that point out opportunities to improve and are willing to make an effort with you. Use platforms that are available to you. While you use any platform, ensure data security and privacy.

Underrated! Most people don’t follow up enough or don’t follow up well. Just doing this alone but following up by still trying to provide value is key. Nobody like a pest just knocking on your door saying the same thing over and over again

While perseverance and grit is the only way to expand, ensure that you don't spend too much time on following up with leads that you know may not materialise. start small and show proof of concept or technology. reach out and follow up with your old contacts after every major milestone. Keep your close connections in the loop always. Advertize and advocate your efficiency and success.

Linkedin is a great way to expand your network. However, you need to be proactive. If you are passive and just accept invites your network will consist of colleagues and potential suppliers that want you as a customer. Be proactive by sending invites to ideal customers. Then let your content do the talking. When they need you they will message.

Participating in networking groups and actively engaging is a highly effective approach to broaden your network. It's crucial to recognize that developing a robust network is a gradual process that requires significant time and effort. Authenticity is key; genuinely invest time in getting to know individuals, understanding their businesses, rather than solely seeking referrals or sales. That is a turnoff. People want to get to know and work with genuine people.

The best way for small business to build connection is to be sincere and genuine. Often times, we through out connection invites and offers to people we have had zero foundation with---Ask yourself "How would I want to be treated and how do I want to come across?" "Am I building value?"

One of the laws of the universe is the more you give the more you get. Being generous with your time and knowledge is the best way i know to grow a business.

Being authentic starts with accepting that the way you truly are is valuable. It’s sets you apart from the crowd and people are attracted to people who are being themselves. It creates a lot more depth with people and therefore stronger relationships and goodwill so people refer you a lot more as as well.

Focus on quality. Focus on what I call "bite size success" Maintain quality of service. Ensure your work is the banner to your success. Not the other way.

Networking Dos and Don'ts: - **Dos**: Be authentic, be prepared, provide value, and be respectful of others’ time. - **Don'ts**: Don't oversell yourself, don't dismiss anyone as unimportant, don't forget to follow up, and don't let connections go cold. Success in networking is not just about the number of connections but the strength and relevancy of those relationships. Regular review and adaptation of networking strategies are key to continuous improvement.

In my experience Boots on the ground word of mouth you social media to your advantage. Let everyone know your business until it becomes second nature to your conversations. Have confidence in your brand, because if prospects can’t believe your product or Service, they’re not gonna buy! Just remember the customer is buying YOU!!! They have to like you before they buy you!