I recently read an article on marketing tips and one was to not waste your time on local networking events since the ROI is not so great. I belong to a few networking groups and one in particular that I am extremely active in.  Being an active in networking I disagree with this and here is why.

Myth:   You don’t get anything out of it.  Well to put it bluntly, you get what you give. The first rule of thumb is talk 20% of the time and listen 80%. If you go to an event with only the notion of getting the sale, it will be a big bust. The idea here is to make contacts and add people to your network.

Myth:  No one seems interested in my business. Are you making your business appealing or are you just hard selling to everyone? Many people look at me puzzled when I state that I am a Virtual Assistant, so now I start out with “How would you like to save yourself one hour a day for ME time?” When I get their attention I then tell you what tasks I can accomplish in one hour. And I gear towards the focus of those attending the event.

Myth:  Networking is handing out your business cards. Nine out ten business cards end up in the trash especially if you attend events where there are repeat contacts. Networking is about making connections not handing out hundred of cards. Instead of passing out cards, I pass out a newsletter with business and time savings tips along with software recommendations (usually free or low cost). This leaves those attending with something they can use rather than just a little rectangle of paper. Often times I will be asked for a card and it is then that I hand them out.

Myth:  My time is too valuable. Here is a thought, so is everyone else’s time. Many businesses generate 75% of their business through networking and word of mouth referral. Often there are conversations in which you can get an idea or learn of someone else to help you take your business to the next level. I have even made contacts through someone who has attended the event and cannot use my services but passed them on to someone who can.

Myth:   Free events or groups are just social meetings. Yes some are and some groups are more about building their memberships rather than providing great opportunities. Test out the waters for each group. If it works for you fine stick with it, if not move on. Some groups with no membership fees have more resources than those with fees so don’t discount them just yet.

While I agree that every event is not for everyone, choose your functions and groups wisely and take it seriously. Networking is about people meeting people not about handing out cards or selling your product. Recognize an opportunity to use your expertise or give sound advice and you will be remembered often. And most importantly, get to know the group and members for you never know when they will need your service or product, or better yet they will know someone who will.

All the Best,
Lee Drozak ~ My Office Assistant