Blog Layout

Tips for Networking Effectively

March 16, 2023

Networking can be an effective activity to build new connections and grow relationships with your current contacts. To be successful at networking, you need to do more than just show up at an event and hope for the best. Someone who is successful when it comes to developing business through networking implements a strategy, so that they can be productive when it comes to leveraging their networking activities into new business.


Below are the top tips to effectively generate new opportunities from networking events:


1. Set goals: Before attending the event, set specific goals for what you want to achieve from the event. Goals could include outcomes such as meeting certain people, developing relationships with potential strategic partners, or finding new business opportunities.


2. Dress appropriately and bring breath neutralizers (gum/mints): Dress professionally and appropriately for the event. Remember that you are representing yourself and your business, so make a good impression.


3. Bring business cards: Make sure to bring plenty of business cards to hand out to people you meet. In addition, bring a pen or pencil so that you can make notes on the back of the business cards you collect. After each conversation, make sure to jot notes on the back of the card so that you will remember the conversation the next day. For those who don’t like to carry cards, make notes on your mobile phone or in your CRM to help you with your future follow up.


4. Be approachable: Smile and make eye contact with people. Look for groups of people standing together and approach them with a friendly introduction. Ask permission to enter the group and start the conversation. Don’t be the person who is forcing their business card on everyone within the first ten seconds of conversation.


5. Listen actively and be curious: When talking to people, listen actively and ask questions to show your interest. This will help you build relationships and learn more about their businesses. This will also help you to customize your elevator pitch to the people you are speaking with when you introduce yourself.


6. Develop an effective elevator pitch: Have a prepared response when people ask what you do and who you want to meet. Discuss the problems that you solve for your clients and paint a picture describing a good prospect or client. When you finish describing what you do, end with an open-ended question to engage the person or people you are talking with.


7. Follow up: After the event develop a follow up plan. All your follow up should take place within two business days of the event. Identify which people it makes sense to follow up with. Make a call or send a personalized email or LinkedIn message thanking them for their time and scheduling a time to have a follow up conversation.


8. Attend regularly: Attend networking events regularly to build relationships and stay connected with people in your industry. This will help you strengthen relationships and stay up to date on industry trends and opportunities.


Networking effectively is a valuable skill that can enhance your sales efforts. If you are interested in a free consultation to determine if Polin Performance Group is the right resource to teach you how to network and grow your business, please click the “book a consultation page”, email us at evan@polinpg.com or call us at 215-970-2360.


Schedule a Time for a

Free Consultation

Contact Us

You might also like

Sales Goals and Business Development Plans
By Evan Polin October 20, 2023
Unlock growth: Discover the crucial link between sales goals and business development for success.
Sales Coaching
By Evan Polin October 20, 2023
Discover how Sales Coaching empowers seasoned service pros. Elevate your skills and drive success. Explore now!
By Evan Polin October 20, 2023
As the end of the year approaches, the pressure to meet and exceed sales goals intensifies. It's a critical juncture where strategic planning and focused execution can make all the difference between accomplishing your sales goals and falling short of your goals. In this article, we'll delve into sales strategies that can propel you towards hitting your goals, ensuring that you not only finish the year strong but set the stage for a successful 2024. 1. Reflect and Reframe: Start by reflecting on your year so far. What worked well and what didn't? Examine the new clients you have brought in this year. How did you get in front of those opportunities? Which prospecting activities converted into new business? Use this insight to reframe your prospecting approach for the remaining months. Sometimes, a small pivot in strategy can yield significant results. 2. Segmented Targeting: Focus your efforts on high-priority segments. Identify the most lucrative market niches or customer profiles and tailor your sales approach to address their specific needs. Are there industries that may be more receptive to your message at the end of the year? Are you looking at the different services you provide and seeking out your ideal prospects? A targeted sales strategy often yields better returns than a broad, one-size-fits-all approach. 3. Leverage CRM Data for Upselling: Your CRM data is a goldmine. Participate in a true account management exercise with the companies in your database. Identify opportunities for upselling or cross-selling based on past interactions and transactions. Existing customers are often more receptive to additional offerings, and this can significantly boost your revenue and your reach within your current client base. 4. Strategic Partnerships for Mutual Growth: Explore strategic partnerships that can complement your offerings. This collaborative approach can open new avenues for business, expand your reach, and create a win-win situation for both parties involved. 5. Intensify Client Engagement: Strengthen relationships with existing clients. Schedule check-ins, seek feedback, and showcase the value you've provided throughout the year. Satisfied clients are more likely to become repeat customers and advocates for your brand. 6. Empower Your Sales Team: Ensure your sales team is equipped for success. Provide additional training, set clear goals, and foster a supportive environment. Motivated and well-prepared teams are more likely to meet and exceed targets. The year-end is not just a countdown; it's an opportunity to strategically position yourself for success. By adopting these sales strategies, you can maximize your efforts, overcome challenges, and achieve your sales goals before the year closes. Remember, the right mix of reflection, targeted approaches, and team enablement can pave the way for a strong finish and set the stage for an even more successful year ahead. If you are interested in learning about how you and your team can be more effective maximizing your sales results before the end of the year, please reach out to Polin Performance Group by emailing us or calling us at 215-970-2360 .
More Posts
Share by: