The Value of Networking

Most of the articles I come across on networking have to do with job seeking, but it seems (from what I hear from advisors), that our clients can often benefit from these skills as well.

Many entrepreneurs need to get the word out and possibly exchange services with other start-ups. Networking offers a great deal to the new business owner:

They can meet a variety of people, often building knowledge of their industry. It is a method of low cost advertising and a way to find bartering opportunities, maintain relationships with other professionals, potential clients and gain referrals.

Some articles:

10 Tips for Successful Business Networking
by Stephanie Speisman

Offers tips like:
…Follow through quickly and efficiently on referrals you are given. When people give you referrals, your actions are a reflection on them. Respect and honor that and your referrals will grow…
…Call those you meet who may benefit from what you do and vice versa. Express that you enjoyed meeting them, and ask if you could get together and share ideas.. .

How Job-Seekers Get Their Jobs
QuintCareers.com

Explains how people really get jobs and referrals.
A pie chart shows that nearly half of all job seekers reach the right people through networking followed by cold-calling which came in second (24%) for being the best way to get in the door. The importance of networking can also be applied to makig contact with clients and services. Although a career site, this one also has a list of networking sources on the web and best practices.


Finding Time: Blending Networking Into Your Life
By Perri Capell
WSJ CareerJournal.com

“You may think of networking -- making new contacts and spreading the word about yourself or your company -- as slogging to trade shows or meet-and-greet cocktail parties to shake hands and exchange business cards.

But tending to your career doesn't require spending long days in hotel ballrooms or long nights in smoke-filled bars. If you see everyone as a potential contact, you can network during any mundane daily activity, from waiting in line for a latte to peddling at the gym to commuting.”

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