Having a solid network of contacts is one of your most valuable assets. This network can help you expand your customersto generate new ideas and connect with financial partners, suppliers and advisors. He help position your company in your industry.
The benefits are cumulativebecause each new contact integrates you into its own network business.
However, networking requires perseverance. You need to invest time and efforts to develop your network, travel, meet people, exchange and follow up with potential partners to explore synergies between companies.
These steps can be particularly trying for members of the minority communitieswho may sometimes feel a sense of discomfort at certain networking events.
Nonetheless, having a diverse network of talented colleagues, customers and even competitors offers many advantages. benefits far greater than the personal challenges associated with meeting new people that can contribute to your company's growth.
Networking 101: Building Business Relationships to Boost Your Company's Growth
Formal networking
Formal networking involves structured meetings in formal settings. These are often conferencesseminars, trade shows and chamber of commerce meetings. These events are organized with objectives These include sharing knowledge, finding business partners and exploring new market opportunities.
There are many advantages to formal networking:
- Access to a wide range of professionals : These events often attract a wide variety of participants, bringing together people from different sectors.
- Environment structured Formal events follow a precise schedule, facilitating targeted introductions and discussions.
- Learning opportunities : By taking part in conferences and workshops, you can gain valuable knowledge and keep up to date with trends in your sector.
Informal networking
Informal networking takes place in more relaxed, less structured settings. It can take the form of meetings at lunches, dinners, sports outings or other social events. These interactions offer an opportunity to forge personal links outside the strict professional context.
The benefits of informal networking include:
- Building strong personal relationships Interaction in relaxed settings allows us to get to know people better on a personal level, which can strengthen professional ties.
- Relaxed atmosphere Informal discussions are often more spontaneous and less stressful, making for a more relaxed atmosphere. communication open and honest.
- Flexibility : It's possible to network anytime, anywhere, which makes this type of networking very accessible.
Networking via Social Networks
Social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, offer powerful tools for professional networking. They enable you to connect with professionals around the world, share ideas and promote your business effectively.
There are many advantages to networking via social networks:
- Global reach : You can get in touch with professionals from a wide range of sectors and geographical regions.
- Availability and accessibility : Social networks are accessible at all times, allowing you to network regardless of time or place.
- Increased visibility By publishing relevant content, you can establish yourself as a reference in your field, attract interested contacts and promote your products or services.
Networking, whether formal, informal or via social networks, is essential to stimulate your company's growth. Each type of networking offers unique advantages that can be exploited to expand your network of contacts, find new opportunities and strengthen your company's position in your industry. By combining these different approaches, you maximize your chances of success and sustainable development.
Open up and blossom
Creative individuals whose ideas have not yet found a wide audience with their peersThey can benefit from interaction with others who share this sense of marginality. If you have an unconventional mindIt's crucial to look for people who share the same values and perspectives.
Social media, such as LinkedIn, and other platforms on lineare particularly useful in this context. They make it possible to join groups working on similar projectsThis makes it easier to connect with like-minded individuals.
Steps to follow for networking
Look for networking opportunities: Find out more about groups and associations before getting involved.
Attend as a guest: Participate in an activity as a guest before becoming a member.
Attend meetings regularly: Your regular presence shows your sincere commitment.
Maintain contact: Send newsletters about your company to your contacts.
Vary your interactions: Don't spend too much time with people you already know.
Set your goals: For example, try to meet three or four new people at each event.
Take notes: Write down names, workplaces and topics of discussion after each activity.
Identify follow-up actions: Choose the people you want to contact at a later date, and follow up regularly.
Increase your visibility: Regular participation in these events will increase your visibility and your chances of getting referrals.
Networking venues in the region
BNI References in Northmeets every Wednesday at 7:30 AM at the Comfort Inn, 8, rue De Martigny Saint-Jérôme. Number of members: 28
BNI ProPulsionevery Thursday at 8:00 AM at 2C2B Coworking3235, avenue de la Gare, Mascouche. Number of members: 19
Montcalm RCM Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Assomption RCM Chamber of Commerce Several times a year, events such as 5@7 networking, revolving dinners, conferences on mental health, human resources management, the environment, etc. are organized.ecologylunch for Women's Rights Day, etc...
Technoparc Lanaudière : Dedicated space for technology companies with frequent networking events.
Espace CoLab Joliette : Coworking space encouraging meetings between professionals from different sectors.
Réseau M de Lanaudière : Network of mentoring for entrepreneurs, which organizes meetings and workshops.
How to follow up after a networking event
Importance of follow-up : Follow-up is crucial to maintain the momentum generated by the first contact.
Act quickly: Follow up within 24 to 48 hours, mentioning how nice it was to meet the person or asking about the promised connection.
Usefulness of follow-up : This type of follow-up is essential to progress in your professional interactions and relationships.
Tips for effective follow-up: Add your new contacts on LinkedIn or other social networks, send newsletters if you publish them, get back in touch in six months' time and always try to set a date for the next meeting.
Evaluate the relevance of contacts: Check if the person is the right one to help your business, and recognize the signs when you need to remove yourself from the conversation.
Build a reliable network: Regular monitoring, evaluation and maintenance will help you develop a diverse and reliable network to drive your business forward.
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