Networking

Every business, no matter how large or small, must have constant new business and contacts in order to continue to grow and expand. Networking is simply reaching out to others with the expectation of furthering business. When we develop contacts over a period of time, we develop trust. This trust will eventually lead to increased sales. In addition, growing new contacts and developing relationships, will eventually lead to referrals.  We can expand our sphere of influence with our networking efforts.

Networks to Join

RYZE

RYZE Is  a network of over 250,000 people. Most of these people are ib business, but many have other interests as well.

Free members get a home page, can e-mail other members and join networks with specific interests. There are other advantages for free members. One of the largest and the best

Networking Tools

Linked In
Strengthens and expands your current network of trusted contacts

Networking Tips

Here are some great networking tips from our community members !

My best and tried networking tip in all honesty is just be yourself, that is it. When I try to be more, when I come on too strong as a business women with no gruff, I take away the human essence of who I really am, by giving off the impression I am better than most.

I have learned alot thru the years with my various titles, that the best and only tried way to meet and connect with people is to be honest, true and convicted by who, what and where you come from, believe and atest to aspire. It is very hard for any of us to just lay ourselves out there on the table, vulnerability flowing all over, afraid we will come across to meek or weak, better yet to frail and unsure of our own place in life and business.

Take it from someone who has shed alot of unneccessary tears, sleepless stressed filled nights, being you, whatever it is, good or bad, is how you can build upon the foundation you set forth in both life and business! Never be afraid to ask for help and be sure to always accept it, especially when you have requested it, although you may not agree (heck that will happen), take with stride and see if you can't learn from it somehow.

Well this is it for now, I am pressed for time, but hope that this will be of some use, common sense I know, but sometimes you just need to hear someone else say it to get it in motion :D Enjoy, Patricia

Carol Deckert
My best networking tips would be:

Be authentic - say exactly what you mean and mean exactly what you say!

Be willing to give with no thought of payback. A true networker knows that "Givers Gain" and starting out with a giving attitude, you will become very respected.

And the most important one - LISTEN - find out what the other person needs/wants. Everyone wants to be heard.