When you’re a busy business owner, it can seem like it’s nearly impossible to have the time to connect with others. Having time for family and friends can be a struggle in its own right, but sparing time for anyone outside of your inner circle can be challenging. So how do you make the time to network? The art of networking can be as simple or complex as you’d like it to be, but the key to growing your business is to learn how to make time for it.
Have a schedule and use your time wisely.
Begin Your Day with Purpose
In order to make time for networking, you must begin your day with purpose. This means that you have to have a schedule and use your time wisely. Understand how to structure your schedule in such a way that not only makes the most of your time, but that allows you to make the most profit in your time spent.
These time management tips will help you to make sure that you’re making the most of your time spent during the day.
Mold Your Monday. No one likes to work on Monday. You’re trying to get back into the swing of things after a long weekend and don’t know how to begin. Well, here’s a tip. Make your Monday a day when you sit down and strategize about how your week will look. You may need a cup of coffee first, but it’s wise to make this the first thing you do when you start your week.
Profit Before Pleasure. Make sure that when you’re planning your week to make ANY activities that will yield a profit for your business a priority. It may even be a good idea to schedule your priority events at the beginning of your day. Meetings, phone calls, billing, etc… should all be done within a specific time frame.
Consistency Is Key. When conducting your priorities, make sure that you’re constructing them in a consistent way. If you designate the first half of the day to sales, then make sure that you do that on a daily or scheduled and consistent basis. It takes a minimum of 21 days to construct a habit, and this is a key habit that you will want to master.
So, you may be asking yourself, “Well, how does this provide me with time to network?” Simply stated, by refining your schedule based on the above points, you’ve most likely come to the point where you can see that you now have more availability to do so.
The Art of Networking in Business
Now that you’ve constructed a more time efficient schedule, you actually have the time to master the art of networking in business. Networking is truly an art in the fact that it takes time, skill, and effort.
Those who tend to be more social butterflies in their personality type will find this an easy task. Others who struggle with socializing will have to really think about how they can begin to interact with others. Either way, there is an art to networking, and here are some key considerations to review when perfecting your craft.
Don’t Get In Over Your Head. If you’re a small business owner looking for new prospects, make your networking strategy simple and strategic. Don’t look to the next major event or meeting to search for new business. Make your meetings intentional and surround yourself with people who are within a complimentary industry or customer base. Consider a local networking chapter to begin with and get to know other professionals within your area.
Build Your Network Wisely. If you’re not sure how to get started with your networking endeavors, try to apply this simple experiment. Learn about your area of business and seek out complimentary business who may be able to provide you with referrals. Word-of-mouth is the most efficient way for customers to learn about your business, so it’s your job to go out and get to know the owners of business who can provide you with that type of advertising.
Quality Before Quantity. You may have a great idea. Pass out as many business cards as you can to people and then they’ll be sure to touch base with you. That may get you quick business, but not the type of quality network that you will need to build a lasting base of customers. Consider who you’re networking with and don’t waste your time meeting with people who won’t help your bottom-line.
Leave A Calling Card. When you’ve spent time with someone, whether over lunch, coffee, or just casual conversation, leave them with information about your current events or offerings. Always leave a calling card of sorts that is unique and memorable for them to help remind them of what you have to offer. As an example, if you’re the owner of a salon or spa, you could leave a branded nail file or hand cream with them with your brand and phone number on it. Practical calling cards will always yield the highest ROI.
Learning How to Connect with Others
It’s imperative also, as a business, owner, to learn how to best connect with others through the understanding of buying signs through body language and communication styles.
Spend time learning more about networking and reading other business professionals body language by watching this video by YouTube creator Improvement Pill.
How to Read ANYONE Instantly
Consult with a Business Expert
If you’re struggling to find the right tools to help you network, and need help perfecting the art of networking in business, it’s always wise to consult with a business expert. Investing in learning how to communicate will only enhance your success and help build the best foundation to keep your business healthy and efficient for years to come.
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