Business networking is both an art and a science. The advent of E-Networking has opened up a new online world of "Mega-Networking." From the proliferation of social networking sites like My Space and Facebook – to more structured, in-person networking groups like Business Networking International (BNI), there have never been better opportunities for expanding your network. Still, many of the proven "rules of engagement" apply, because, whatever the method, it's all about relationships.

With that in mind, there are three basic kinds of business networking:

1. Traditional networking – Face-to-face meet & greets at business functions, social events, club meetings, etc. In addition to joining an association specific to your industry, check out your local Chamber of Commerce or Rotary International chapter.

2. Structured networking clubs – Professional groups like Business Networking International (BNI) require a significant time commitment but can be tremendously helpful in finding new business.

3. Online or E-Networking – Internet-based networking websites such as LinkedIn and Spoke.com take "six-degrees-of-separation" networking and make it digital.

Here are some ideas to boost your networking efforts:

Join a formal business networking or booster group

Joining a group can be like having dozens of sales reps promoting your business for you.
Business Networking International (BNI) has chapters around the world. Or plug in through a local chamber of commerce (terrific for local networking) or Rotary club.

Take advantage of online networking opportunities

The newest trend in networking provides unique opportunities to connect with colleagues online and expand your network exponentially. LinkedIn is a popular E-networking site for business, as is Ryze. Some online networking sites are geared towards specific industries. EntreMate, for example, specializes in connecting entrepreneurs who are looking for business partners. And let's not forget the social media darling, Facebook.com.

Perfect your elevator pitch

Prepare and rehearse your one-minute "introduction speech" in advance. This breaks the ice and also serves as a good conversation-starter. Learn more about crafting a great elevator pitch. Need inspiration? Read successful elevator pitches and tweak your own at YourElevatorPitch.com.

Be a trade group joiner

Join professional trade groups. Volunteer. Become actively involved in your industry associations. Make a name for yourself; don't hide behind the scenes. For instance, you can join local chapters of Fast Company magazine's Company of Friends group to stay connected or more freelance-oriented groups like Guru.com, where you can find work and search for freelancers to work for you.

Give before you get

Remember that networking is a two-way street. Be ready to reciprocate. Kevin Spacey's Hollywood agent character said it best in the film "Swimming with Sharks:" You've got to give action to get action!" Don't dismiss the power of social networking websites like Facebook, Ziggs,Friendster and Knowmentum. These can be a source of great connections.

Follow up

Cultivate your relationships. Send notes after meeting a new contact. Be proactive about staying in touch. Recognize that it takes time to build a relationship.

Additional Tips & Tactics

Dig your well before you're thirsty – the best time to develop your network is before you need it!

Be a great listener. You'll expand your circle of friends when you show sincere interest.

Offer assistance. Networking is not a one-way street.

Just like there's a right way to "work a room," you must observe proper "netiquette" when you're networking online.

Lou Bortone is an award-winning writer and video producer with over 20 years experience in marketing, branding and promotion. As an online video expert, Lou helps entrepreneurs create video for the web at www.TheOnlineVideoGuy.com. In addition, Lou works as a freelance writer and professional ghostwriter, with a ghostwriting site at www.GhostwriteForYou.com and a blog at www.GhostwriteGuru.com.

• 1 Comments

  

Comments

Hi Lou, Thanks for sharing such good advice on working your network and honing your networking skills. It's more important now than ever, since in today's business world, there seems to be both an offline and an online network that we must be building and nurturing.

One idea that has helped me in this effort is to remember the value of establishing a good online image or online reputation for use in networking. Using sites liked Ziggs and LinkedIn, a professional can create a free online profile without any tech know-how. Once in Ziggs and LinkedIN, a person can soon be found in search engines when one googles their name. Ziggs will even send you an email alert with the location and time of every person that searches and finds your online profile. I hope this info is helpful. All the best to you!

 Posted by: Julia Bradley at May 13, 2008 6:18 PM

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