The Best Tips for Business Networking Success
Three more key steps for getting started in the world of collaborative
The Best Little Known Ways to BUSINESS Success
Simple strategies for connecting to those who can take you to the next level in your business
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3-minute read
Q. Lewis, I am reading many of your posts on business success and I see how important it has been for you. How did the online networking business become such a dominant force in creating business success? Also, what are some of the ethical issues involved in the b2b network process?
A. Before online business networking, face-to-face networking was the only option for business people. This was achieved through a number of techniques such as trade show marketing and loyalty programs. Though these techniques have been proven to still be an effective source of making connections and growing a business, many companies now focus more on online marketing due to the ability to track every detail of a campaign and justify the expenditure involved in setting up one of these campaigns.
As for the question of ethics? Networking can be an effective way for job-seekers to gain a competitive edge over others in the job market. The skilled networker cultivates personal relationships with prospective employers and selection panelists, in the hope that these personal affections will influence future hiring decisions. This form of networking has raised ethical concerns. The objection is that it constitutes an attempt to corrupt formal selection processes. The networker is accused of seeking a non-meritocratic advantage over other candidates; an advantage that is based on personal fondness rather than on any objective appraisal of which candidate is most qualified for the position.
There are some risks that must be considered when using and publishing on social media. As companies can be liable for the content posted by their employees on blogs or social networks. According to Olswang, an influential book editor it is necessary to prepare a clear privacy policy while also remaining compliant to protecting company data and adhering to the social media platform's privacy policy. This ensures the networker can still build their connections and not risk damaging the relationships they've built.
Networked Business
Many businesses use networking as a key factor in their marketing plan. It helps to develop a strong feeling of trust between those involved and plays a big part in raising the profile of a company. Suppliers and businesses can be seen as networked businesses and will tend to source the business and their suppliers through their existing relationships and those of the companies they work closely with. Networked businesses tend to be open, random, and supportive, whereas those relying on hierarchical, traditional managed approaches are closed, selective, and controlling. These phrases were first used by Thomas Power, businessman, and chairman of Ecademy, an online business network, in 2009.
Additionally, social media has made a positive impact on networking as it also has allowed for more openness and inclusivity. To be successful with social media, it is vital to consider and plan an approach that can be maintainable and reliable. The best method is to put time aside weekly and make a plan for a few days a week and block off time to improve a social media approach.
It is worth investing time and resources towards networking, as a good social media strategy allows the individual or business to foster relationships and build their credibility.
The Takeaway
Networking is an ongoing process. These are the three basic steps I use
Level 1 – Coffee chat. You have their attention.
Level 2 - Follow up immediately by thanking them for their time, mentioning something specific from the meeting that you found particularly helpful or interesting and that you'd like to stay in touch. Keep it simple.
Level 3 - Keep in loose touch. This is the essential bridge from casual with little connection to deeper with a good network. This means to call or direct message now and then. Do this intermittently, very informally, and casually. It doesn't have to be a two-way exchange. Send them articles or videos on subjects you know they care about.
Level 4 – To keep the connection close and distant enough at the same time use social media to casually connect. There are many digital platforms that can help you do this.
In addition to sending an email about an interesting article that you think the person would like…
· comment on a LinkedIn post,
· telling them how beautiful their vacation photos are on FB or Instagram,
· send a direct message on FB or Twitter.
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Author: Lewis Harrison is the creator of the Life Strategies Playbook and Mentoring Course and The Spiritual, Not Religious Course.
A Results-Oriented Success Mentor and Coach, and a master networker, he has a passion for knowledge, personal development, applied game theory, self-improvement, creativity, innovation, problem-solving, and story-telling.
“I am always exploring trends, areas of interest, and solutions to build new stories and courses. Again, if you have any ideas you would like me to write about just email me at LewisCoaches@gmail.com” or check out my other blogs by subscribing here at Asklewis.Substack.
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Having a skilled mentor, coach, or a specialized course on how to network is essential to fulfilling your potential. Are you ready to take the next step?
Fulfill Your Untapped Inner Potential By Getting Spiritual Mentoring with Lewis Harrison or exploring his Life Strategies Playbook Course
If you have an interest in having a more mindful and meaningful life, schedule an interview with Lewis, and you can explore together how this amazing course can transform your life.
“Let's schedule a 15-minute interview to determine how I can serve you, and if you are a good fit for “Our Mentoring Program”. Email me at LewisCoaches@gmail.com
Lewis
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by clicking the link below…
https://www.amazon.ca/Spiritual-Not-Religious-Sacred-Modern-ebook/dp/B00I9H41C4
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