Effective networking can be a powerful way to grow virtually any business. Direct referrals typically have much higher closure rates, less client acquisition cost, and they grow exponentially over time.
Here are seven powerful networking tips for 2018:
1. Most people collect a lot of business cards, but not a lot of business from networking events. Track the time and money you spend networking and compare that with your results. Stop attending the events that do not provide a good return on your investment.
2. Quality is better than quantity when it comes to networking. Seek out smaller events with better quality connections, as opposed to larger events with average quality connections.
3. Develop an effective follow-up plan for new connections. When you meet with them one-on-one, do not sell yourself. Instead, spend time exploring ways you can help them.
4. Build your network with quality people you can trust. Your reputation is on the line every time you make a recommendation. It is better to make no recommendation at all than to make a bad one.
5. When people refer business to you, they are putting their reputations on the line. You have a responsibility to handle their reputation with care and provide exceptional service to all of your referral clients.
6. It is important to add value to your relationships. Adding value can be much more than just sending referrals. Can you introduce them to a good referring partner? Could you create a speaking opportunity or perhaps write an online review for them?
7. Join a quality referral group. Group dynamics will produce better results than you will ever achieve on your own. Be selective and join the right referral group. There are dozens of choices in Tucson. Only a few of them will deliver the results you need.
We hope these tips help you generate more referral business in 2018 and beyond!
