Ten “LeTips” for Building a More Powerful Business Network
As busy entrepreneurs, tasked with running and growing our business, we understand the importance of building a strong business network. However, attending those business networking functions often feels like a waste of time. At LeTip International we understand the power of a well-organized, result focused business network. It’s all about networking smarter, not sipping wine and socializing.
In a recent Fast Company article on “How to stress your network and fix the gaps”, LeTip Owner and CEO Kim Marie Branch-Pettid talked about the importance of cultivating business networking “power partnerships” outside your industry. “A lot of people think that a power partner is always someone in the same industry or similar industry. That’s not necessarily true.”
“Think about the well-connected people you know and those that are already helping you in your business,” she emphasizes. “Focus on developing more of those relationships.”
Here are 10 “LeTip Tested” recommendations for creating a more powerful business network:
1
Networking is important work
Treat networking like it’s part of your job. It’s called netWORKing for a reason. It’s not social play time. You need to put together a plan and execute it just like you do for other priorities in your company. You should calendar your networking time if you use your calendar to control your day.
Don’t Sell. Tell Your Story.
2
3
Develop a Trusted Network
Push Your Comfort Zone by Networking to New Groups
4
5
Connect with Your Lost Customers
Use Social Media to Boost Your Business Networking Relationships
6
7
Don’t Forget Your Local Chamber of Commerce
Networking is About Consistency and Staying Top of Mind
8
9
Set Time to Research and Read
Join a Professional Networking Group like LeTip
The number one way to build a better business network is to join and become active in an exclusive, competition free networking group to build long-term relationships and power partnerships. At LeTip, we have members who have been around for 20+, 30+ and even 40+ years because their businesses were built on the networking processes that we follow every week. Find your local LeTip Chapter here and join us at our next meeting as a guest.