Network On Purpose.

Effective business networking is the linking together of individuals who, through trust and relationship building, become walking, talking advertisements for one another.

Unfortunately, many of us are missing opportunities to build our referral network by drifting through networking events with very little focus. Here are some ways you might approach your networking with greater purpose:

• Set a goal. For example: “Create three new win/win relationships”

• Go it alone. Look for others who are alone.

• Always ask for a business card.

• Ask lots of questions and take notes on the back of the card.

• Instead of handing out your business card, try a magnet, coin, tin of mints, nail file, letter opener, coaster, pen, golf tee, note pad, wallet calendar, book mark or jar opener.
  

• Follow up immediately with a hand-written note and enclosed business card.

• Add each new contact to your data base, newsletter list, etc.

• Link to each contact via online networking sources.

• Call and ask for a meeting to learn more about their business.

Remember, the key to this approach is focus. That means you will be working on quality of connections rather that quantity of leads. If you attempt the above procedure with a huge stack of business cards, you are likely to fall short of the time and/or energy needed for proper follow up. Be selective. Network on purpose.