Networking - The Power to Transform Your Business

One size does not fit all...

Networking works. You know that. We know that - it has the power to completely transform your business.

People regularly ask me about which networking group I would recommend. A fair question considering how many years I have been networking... However this is often preceded by negativity about networking whether from first hand experiences or hearsay, moans about not getting results and lots of excuses as to why it isn't happening.

My personal belief is that all networking (we almost all) is good networking....

Where people get it wrong is not finding the right group and not being prepared to put the time and effort in to enjoy the rewards. Follow these three steps and improve your results.

Step One

Decide what you want to achieve from your networking. You can enjoy many of the benefits below from the same event but you do need to decided which one is your primary objective.
Gain ConfidenceMeet other business ownersGet support and advice from fellow professionalsEnjoy the lunch and keep up on the gossipGrow your bank of business contactsHear some motivational guest speakersMeet service/product suppliers for yourselfImprove the way your run your businessGain regular businessGain valuable business

Step Two

Find the right networking group for you. You can talk to people about their experiences but that is their opinion and I would recommend visiting groups yourself. Ask yourself the following questions when making your decision.
Can I make the meeting times comfortably and attend regularly?Was the format and content right for what I want?Do I share similarities with the members ie reasons for attending?Are the businesses involved ones that I could potentially refer to?Do the current members have contacts with my ideal clients and introducers?Could I see what the members are gaining from the group?What are the tangible benefits? ie referrals, support, personal development?Can I uphold all required commitments of membership?Was there a positive feel to the event, did I enjoy the event and would I look forward to going again?

Step Three

Once you have decided which group is right for you STOP and double check that you are willing and able to commit. Being a little unsure and nervous is fine but you have to be willing and positive. An ' I'll give it ago, I can always leave' attitude will not get you the relationships, opportunities and success you deserve. The first things to do now are.
Attend any training available to youMake sure you have a clear message so other know how to help youMet the members on a 1-2-1 basis to get to know them, find a way to help them quickly.Follow up on everything efficientlyAlways thank people for introductions, opportunities and businessEnjoy your networking, taking it seriously doesn't mean it has to be boring or scary.

Cathy Dunbabin is the founder of Opendoorz Networking in Oxford, United Kingdom. After many years as a networking facilitator Cathy has created a unique opportunity for business networkers in the UK. If you're a serious networker looking to raise your game and make new quality connections that will bring you genuine new business opportunities, then Opendoorz is what you've been looking for.

Opendoorz challenges the tired format established by many networking groups. Its success is founded on the quality and calibre of the membership, the experience and passion of its directors and the unique blend of meeting content.

Contact Cathy at http://opendoorz.wordpress.com/ or email her directly at cathy@opendoorz.biz

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