5 Ways To Get The Most Out Of Business Networking Groups

Are you a member of BNI?  Your local Chamber of Commerce?  An industry association?  If you are, you’ll quickly realize that all business networking groups are not created equal. Our local Middleton Chamber of Commerce events are outstanding, filled with fun, interesting people.  But when I lived in California, I didn’t have that same experience.

So how do you get the most out of business networking groups? First off, find one that works for you. Don’t waste valuable time thinking “it’ll get better” – unless you are personally stepping up to a leadership position to make it better.  There are lots of options out there.

When you find a business networking group that is suited for you, here are 5 simple ways to make the most of it!

The first rule of networking is to bring plenty of business cards. But beyond that basic step, prepare yourself to create a great meeting.  If you are shy or new to the area, get to the venue early. This will allow you time to meet people one-on-one as they stream in. You may consider doing a little background research on people you know will be there.  With Facebook and LinkedIn, it’s easier than ever to find some common ground you can use to spark up a conversation.

When we say interesting, we don’t mean “WOW, IN-TER-EST-ING!”  Leave your crazy antics and wild get-ups at home. Contrary to the popular saying, all publicity is not in fact good publicity.  What we mean is that we don’t want you to just show up and pitch your business.

People want to talk about their own businesses – and their real lives and outside interests.  Sometimes, the organizer adds interest for you.  The Middleton Chamber of Commerce has a meeting segment called “Face Time,” where everyone around the table answers a silly question. When people try to sneak in their pitch, the rest of the table almost flinches. It’s just such a newbie tactic. Relax. If you build a relationship, you’ll have plenty of time to earn their business. Be present. Come up with a creative answer.  Often (if you don’t have a “Face Time” at your meeting), you’re the one who has to come up with the creative questions too.

Remember that we all hate to “be sold.”  Find people that you want to know. Focus on building relationships, not just making sales. When I attend the Middleton Chamber of Commerce events I am continuously reminded of why I moved to Middleton in the first place. There are a lot of small business owners and nonprofits who genuinely care about helping each other and building a better and stronger community.

Be fully present.  You can’t do that if your phone keeps distracting you. I will be the first to admit that I am guilty sometimes ignoring this rule. As a small business owner, it is hard for me to trust that the shop is running smoothly without me. Arrange things so that you can turn off the phone and tune into what is going on around you. The same is true for so many other things in life as well.

Whether it’s Toastmastasters, Rotary Club or your local chamber of commerce, organizations need strong leadership. Don’t be the one who sits in the back and grouses about a poorly run meeting. Step up to make it better.  Use the skills from your day job to add value.  If you’re an accounting type person, volunteer to be the treasurer.  Don’t be afraid to push a little past your comfort level. Organizations are a great place to learn leadership skills. 

Many people show up to business networking events and then never follow up, which can be an advantage for you.  You will stand out!  Remember that timing is everything. When I’m travelling on business, I often go to my hotel room at the end of the night and send out emails or snail mail notes.  Don’t assume people will remember you – especially if it’s a big event. Remind them what you talked about. Do your research so you have some talking points and know a little about their business. If the prospect is still warm after the first phone call or email, don’t be afraid to take the next step.