Thanks to the internet, the world has become a smaller space. You can now use social media to meet someone on the other side of the world and create a network with that person. Seriously, just look at Kelly and me – we are in two different countries!
This is all relatively new in the world of business – creating so many connections where having face-to-face contact was not always possible to do. Does anyone even remember the business scene in the days before the world-wide-web? I do – networking was really only at award events or trade shows.
When networking face to face was the only way to network, it was a lot easier to know the intentions of those around you. Today people are a lot more cautious, with good reason. So, here is a quick tip for the next time you attend a networking event.
BE HONEST
You need to tell those you network with who you are and what you have to offer. And be completely transparent. If you know that there are other things on the market similar to yours, then let them know and let them know what makes your product superior to those others.
If you don’t know about similar products, then be sure you do thorough research into all aspects of what might be available and what other companies might be creating. You don’t want to get stuck looking inexperienced or unknowledgeable.
Spreading your wings and growing your business is a scary endeavour. If you do your homework and approach it with honesty and integrity, you’ll create a strong network for your business, in no time flat!
The Village’s next virtual networking night is in a few days, you should join us, we’d love to get to know you and your business better!
