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Networking makes me nervous but I have seen the benefits of it which is why I believe it should be part of your marketing strategy. Networking is about making real connections and building a network of people that you can rely on. As the saying goes, your network is your net worth. You are not attending to make a sale but if you build relationships via networking, a sale could be the byproduct.
Just like advertising on social media or building a website is a part of your marketing strategy, networking should be as well. Networking is much more personal than a social media video, you are face-to-face with someone and you form a stronger connection. In this blog, we will tell you three things that you need to know before attending your first networking event and we share some networking events in Scotland that we LOVE!
Don't go in to sell, go in to make real connections
One of the fundamental principles of effective networking is the mindset shift from "selling" to "connecting." Rather than entering a networking event or engaging with potential clients solely to make a sale, approach these interactions with authenticity and a genuine interest in the other person. Don't view them as just another sales prospect but as a potential ally, collaborator, or friend. When you prioritize making real connections over making sales, several benefits emerge. Firstly, it fosters trust and rapport, essential to any successful business relationship. Secondly, genuine connections often lead to referrals and recommendations.
Take a pen and paper
Let's face it, we normally have our phones with us at all times and this can be useful especially when it comes to following someone on Instagram or LinkedIn. Our phones are littered with notifications and can be very distracting, this is where pen and paper come in. Being able to quickly take down someone's details or note down their business is important in a networking setting. Having something to give someone is important as well. Business cards are ok but people normally get handed so many that they throw away or lose them.
How can you stand out and give them something a little different?
Try out different networking groups and rotate them
Exploring various networking groups and rotating through them can be an effective strategy to broaden your professional connections and tap into a diverse range of networks. Each networking group tends to have its own culture, demographics, and focus areas, offering distinct opportunities for relationship-building and collaboration. By attending multiple groups, you can access a wider range of perspectives, expertise, and potential opportunities.
The networking events we LOVE
If you want to get away from your business for a morning and be surrounded by amazing women in business while enjoying a coffee in a lovely venue, Coffee and Chat is for you. We have attended previous events which we have found extremely valuable. We discussed the highs and lows of being a business owner while networking in a fun and relaxed way.
Haven't heard of Egg? Where have you been?! Over the years Kylie and her team have created a fantastic environment for women in Scotland to network, we have even been a guest speaker at one of their previous events! An egg event we love is Women on Top, an incredible event that creates a space to connect and be inspired whilst placing the spotlight on inspirational women. We can't wait to attend the next event and would highly recommend it.
Short on time and looking to meet as many people in business as possible? The Glow Club may be just what you need. Hosting monthly speed networking events in person and virtually allows you to grow your networks and connections within an hour. This event is for all women in business who might be looking to grow their network whilst also being inspired, you never know who you may meet!
If you are in rural Scotland this could be the event for you. There is an event for everyone no matter where your business is, from helping to manage the impacts of climate change on your business to learning how to create video content on Canva. Grow Biz offer informal and interactive events to help anyone looking to start or grow their existing business.
One of the most well-known networking groups in Edinburgh, Coffee Connections is the place to go if you are looking to strike up a conversation with people you may not normally share a space with. The event attracts many professionals from various industries allowing you to make new relationships that can lead to potential customers, peer support, exciting collaborations and just a fun morning away from your normal routine.
Are you ready to network?
Networking is a necessary part of your Marketing strategy. It serves as the bridge between your brand and your audiences, allowing for genuine connections to be formed, trust to be established, and opportunities to be seized.
In an increasingly digital world, where face-to-face interactions are becoming rarer, the value of networking only continues to grow. By prioritising relationships over transactions, businesses can develop a loyal customer base, tap into invaluable insights, and unlock new avenues for growth.
So, whether it is attending industry events, joining professional groups, or simply engaging with peers and prospects, integrating networking into your Marketing is a surefire way to elevate your brand and drive success. Remember, in the end, it's not just about what you know or what you sell—it's about who you know and how you make them feel.
