4 tips for effective networking

Whether you seek growth in your personal or professional life, you can achieve more with a healthy network of mutually beneficial connections. But society today is becoming increasingly individualised, and so many use technology as a crutch for genuine connection. How can we tap into relationships to create long-term, scalable value?

Let's dive into a few tips for effective networking to help you get started:

Decide what you want to achieve

Before you jump into the ring, set one clear objective to focus on. Whether it's to get your name in the spotlight, procure new clients or form strategic partnerships, keeping your goal top-of-mind will help you direct energy towards relationships that support it.

To ensure you're establishing a community of mutually beneficial contacts, consider the value you can bring to new connections, then offer it. The more you give, the more you get back.

Start close to home

Building a nexus of valuable connections doesn't have to be at a high-level industry event. Begin by leveraging existing relationships and expand your efforts from there. Here are some ways to start growing your network:

• Talk to family and friends: Look for new connections through your existing circles. The people you've already built trusting relationships with can introduce you to potential allies at events and social gatherings.
• Use your professional networks: Your past and present professional spheres can offer a treasure trove of connections to new people, resources and ideas.
• Don't forget social media: Polishing your social media presence and putting yourself out there helps to transcend local boundaries and connect with people in different locations. Keep your communications genuine by staying casual, professional and focusing on mutual benefit.

Engage by being engaged

People tend to remember how you made them feel rather than what you said. Instead of polishing a pitch as your opening line, stay authentic by focusing on what you can learn from the person in front of you.

Asking about somebody's connection to a person or place shows that you're genuinely interested in the other party. They will likely become more engaged in what you have to say, too.

Strengthen your business relationships

When you're seeking long-term business growth, it helps to build relationships with service providers you can trust, such as WMC Accounting. We help small and medium-sized companies get their business affairs geared for success with a people-first approach. Connect with us today to get started.