What skills do I need for business networking?

We’ve all heard that networking meetings are great places for business owners to hang out, whether they are looking for customers, collaborators or support and community. But what do you actually need to do?

How do you network in a way that helps you find the contacts and opportunities you’re looking for?

Well, there are a few skills that we’ve found come in handy when going to networking meetings to grow your business.

The skills of success in business networking

Networking might seem like an extrovert’s paradise and an introvert’s nightmare but it’s not about being the most talkative person in the room. It’s about really connecting with people and building a supportive network around you. We can all learn to do that in a way that feels right for us!

The art of conversation 

Networking is about the all-important conversations you have with the other business owners you meet. Go beyond small talk and really get to know people. The more you understand each other, the easier it will be to support each other’s businesses such as sending referrals and suggesting collaborators. 

It can be helpful to have a few questions in your back pocket to get the conversation flowing. Think of more than just ‘What do you do?’ Get into the juicy stuff like why they became their own boss or what their big vision is. 

An elevator pitch

Whatever the structure of the networking meeting, there will be a point when you have to introduce your business. After all, if they don’t know what you do, how can they buy from you? Prepare a couple of ‘pitches’ for your business. A quick 60 seconds and a more in-depth 3-minute introduction should cover most bases. You can always switch parts out depending on the offers you’re running or any seasonality in your business. 

Remember, you’re not just selling to the people in the room but also the people they know. Make it easy to identify the kind of people you work with, problems you solve, and results you achieve so they can make the link to their contacts. 

Humour and fun

You might be surprised to see this in a list of business networking skills but humour and fun are definitely the Small Business Vibes way! People don’t always remember what you said but they’ll remember how you made them feel. Part of leaving a good impression is having enjoyable conversations with people. They’re more likely to remember you, want to send business your way, and it’s a good start to an ongoing business relationship.

So don’t be afraid to be yourself during networking meetings. We don’t have to be super serious the whole time just because we’re business owners. Part of getting to know people is getting to know their sense of humour!

Relationship building 

Networking isn’t over when the meeting ends! Build and maintain relationships with your new contacts so they keep you top of mind for opportunities. That’s the power of the follow-up, whether you organise a call, a meet-up or exchange a few messages. Keep checking in with how business is going and getting to know each other better. A proper chat with another business owner is always a good time. 

As you’re checking in, see if there’s anything you can do to help them. It could be promoting an event they’re running or sharing your thoughts and experiences on a situation they’re dealing with. Support each other and you’ll build a mutually beneficial relationship. 

Connecting the dots

Once you’ve built a network of people, make the most of it! Who could benefit from an introduction? It could be because one of your contacts is looking for a specific product or service. You could introduce people because you think they’ll be great referral partners. Or maybe you think they’d get on really well.

Show you’re willing to help out your network. What goes around comes around! Networking works because we all support each other, however we can. As you start out, you might not see as many opportunities but when you get into the flow of networking and build the skill, you’ll be making introductions left, right and centre. 

Organisation 

Having some kind of system to organise your networking efforts definitely comes in handy. A simple spreadsheet or notebook will do. Make a note of who you meet, what they do and their contact details. It makes relationship building and connecting the dots easier because you’re keeping track of your network. There’s nothing worse than knowing you know someone who does X, Y or Z but not being able to remember their name or business. 

Those are the main skills that will help you get the most out of business networking. Be prepared for a good chat, know how to pitch your business, have a laugh, support your network and keep on top of all your new connections. 

All skills are improved with practice. Why not practice your networking skills with us? We’re a very friendly bunch at Small Business Vibes. We have meetings across the country and online so you can find one that works for you and connect with other women business owners. See you there!