235 - What is business networking?

In the recent poll I ran, it came to my attention that many people don't understand what business networking is.

When you connect with people on LinkedIn they become part of your network.

Unless you engage with those people, all you have is a list of unknown people.

If you want to grow your network's strength, start engaging with the people you meet.

What is the value in connecting if you don't interact with the people?

Like, comment on their posts, and follow them.

That's a good start.

But if you want to grow a strong network, schedule live meetings, 1-2-1, face to face (or whatever you want to call it).

Meet with people on any virtual platform (Zoom, Google meet...) to learn more about who they are and to share about yourself.

How else can others get to know and trust you enough to send you referrals or introduce you to potential clients?

Do you refer people you don't know or trust?

The simplest way to grow your network and your business is to interact with the person, not just their content.

I'm not talking about the people who already have 30,000+ followers.

They don't have time to engage personally with everyone. They are where you want to be.

You'll notice that a 15-minute meeting is all you need, giving equal time to both of you.

Now and then you will meet someone with whom you could talk for an hour or even schedule another meeting because you find common ground in business.

That's the power of networking.

1) Connect

2) Like, comment, and follow

3) Meet virtually for a business 1-2-1

4) Watch your network grow stronger

Do you schedule a meeting with your new connections?

#networking #entrepreneur #business #linkedin #smallbu