Remember when you were just getting started with your business and you didn’t quite know the rules?
Maybe you think you have learnt them all, or at least, nothing you are doing is detrimental for business. However, what does have a negative impact on any business is not staying fresh and remaining aware of how your attitude has an impact on your company’s reputation.
Everybody makes mistakes, but some networking issues are easily solved if you take a step back and realise where you’re going wrong.
1. Problem: “I don’t know anybody...”
Why: You believe that you don’t have contacts – or enough of the right ones.
Solution: Change your mental attitude by making a list of everybody you know (think new friends, old friends, family, ex colleagues and current colleagues) then consider the people they know too. Attend relevant events and conferences, handing out business cards and making conversation with the right people. Before you know it you’ll have a full contact book!
2. Problem: “I did this... then I said that... then I went to...”
Why: As the saying goes, you “like the sound of your own voice”, you’re the person who never stops talking!
Solution: Maybe it’s your special skill, being a conversationalist, but always remember, ‘What can you possibly gain from the sound of your own voice?’, Others might learn from you, or they may find you boring, but if you don’t let someone else take hold of the conversation how will you learn new things and develop good contacts?
3. Problem: “I don’t care...”
Why: You’ve turned up late, or your Facebook profile picture is one of you doing a drunken handstand.
Solution: Care more! Social etiquette is everything, always consider that when people think of your company/product/brand they think of you – so what do you want their impression to be? Whether it’s on your social networks, at conferences, in the office or at a meeting – always remain professional, polite and attentive.
4. Problem: “I forgot my business card...”
Why: In keeping with the previous problem (“I don’t care...”) forgetting your business cards suggest that you aren’t too bothered about your reputation or moving your business forward. Scribbling your name and number on a napkin is equal to handing over a questionably poor quality card you got online for 5p.
Solution: Always have a selection of high quality cards printed and keep them in various places. For example, a selection in your office, in your pocket/wallet/bag/car and consider a folder which comes with a business card holder so they are always with you at meetings etc.
5. Problem: “I’m not very confident...”
Why: You don’t dress sharply and you cannot hold yourself with confidence while networking.
Solution: Imagine you’re someone else, think of the most confident person you know and take on their persona. Planning what your introduction is and what you need to say to people helps, as does wearing something you’re comfortable in – look professional, act professional, be professional.
6. Problem: “I’m sorry I haven’t been in touch...”
Why: Making a new contact is one thing, but letting them slip off the radar is a big no-no.
Solution: Always follow up any contact, for example, if you have been to a meeting or interview and things went your way, follow up with a phone call or thank you note (if relevant). Everybody appreciates a quick message of appreciation, even in the rush of modern life – they more so appreciate if it’s not just a rushed email.
7. Problem: “I sent an email...”
Why: Emails are brilliant and efficient, but people can delete them just as efficiently.
Solution: Send an email if that’s what is easiest for you, but if you don’t get a response within 24 hours follow up with a quick phone call. If you go down the email route try and make it personal, not just a mass mailing (even if that’s what it is).
8. Problem: “I was told no – now what...?”
Why: You got rejected and you’re feeling deflated.
Solution: Never let it bother you – no one in history has ever lived without getting a ‘no’. A lot of the time people say no because they don’t have time to deal with you, pick yourself up and move on – if you have been professional (see all of the above), then it’s not a reflection of your behaviour.
