In the past twenty years, the Internet has undeniably become the single most used tool for just about everything, and business is no exception. Last year, 1.79 billion people shopped online, and that only accounts for e-commerce websites, not businesses offering services via their site. However, despite these massive changes to the entrepreneurial landscape, one thing has remained the same: networking is key.
The truth is that most people will be more interested in a business referred to them by someone they trust than just about anything else. For the vast majority of buyers, they immediately trust the word of a friend, colleague, or loved one. Contrastly, buyers will typically not trust an advertisement, say on social media, straight away. This is why referrals should be one of your biggest priorities when looking to expand your client base.
The state of networking today
Lately, word-of-mouth advertising has not been as effective as it used to be. Without people regularly coming into contact with one another, businesses are not getting nearly as much new business as they normally would be. The same can be said for networking. In-person networking is one of the most effective ways to form new business relationships. It pays to know people, and it’s much, much easier to break the ice when you’re face to face.
However, while in-person networking is off the table for now, it could be the perfect time to improve your skills in online networking! If there was ever a time to focus on leveraging the internet to gain new business, this is it! So with that in mind, here are our top ten tips on how to successfully network online.
1. Don’t start with cold calls
Cold calls can work at times, but you’re almost guaranteed to be more successful in establishing new relationships via ‘warm calls.’ This essentially means you contact someone who already knows you. This could be someone you’re very familiar with, or perhaps someone you exchanged cards with at a networking event in the past. Whatever the case, this is the perfect time to reach out and add these people to your growing network.
2. Look into online business networking
Business networking is an invaluable tool for getting new business and, of course, establishing a strong network. Unfortunately, many chapters are no longer operating meetings in person. However, you should look into any online networking meetings in your area, and see if you’re able to virtually attend as a guest. If it’s a good fit, you can become a member and start building even more connections in your network.
3. Take it slow
Some people think of networking as a race to an invisible finish line. However, we’re big believers in going slow and steady. After all, networking is a marathon, not a sprint. If people only meet you briefly before you’re off to make the next ‘connection,’ they’re unlikely to remember you when they’re looking for someone to make a referral for. However, if you take the time to make an authentic connection, it’s more likely you’ll spring to their mind.
4. Focus on maintaining strong relationships
Similar to the networking sprinters, some people think networking is simply meeting people and exchanging business cards. However, it’s extremely important to maintain your connections. These days, it can be as simple as a phone call, an email, or a text message, or a short Zoom meeting to simply check in. A relationship is a living thing, and that’s why regularly touching base with your network is a great way to keep your connections strong.
5. Connect your networks
There are people in the business world with an amazing talent for connecting groups of people who would otherwise never meet. Connecting multiple networks in this way is an amazing thing, helping everyone to expand their circle. Also, people are usually impressed and drawn to these ‘connectors,’ meaning you’re very likely to get referrals your way in the future.
6. Don’t let your connections fade away
It’s tough keeping in contact with so many people, but if you want to maintain a strong business network, you need to ensure you’re keeping in touch with them as often as possible. It’s very common for two people to meet and make a great initial business connection, but then never follow up. Letting relationships like this fade away is never a good idea, so ensure you’re regularly reconnecting with your network, even if it’s just for a quick check-in.
7. Take advantage of online platforms
Keeping up to date on all major online platforms can be a real challenge. There are so many to browse through and worry about, and it seems like more are being introduced every day. But you shouldn’t get overwhelmed! All these platforms, whether it be Instagram or LinkedIn, are invaluable tools for connecting with new people and growing your network.
8. Write reviews
As a business owner, you know how important reviews are in this day and age. Today people will often look at your reviews before choosing to come in, and will typically go to a more highly rated alternative if you don’t meet their standards. Positive reviews are incredibly valuable for a business owner, so get in the habit of leaving them for your network whenever you use their services. Typically, they’ll return the favour, meaning everyone wins!
9. Keep your network updated on your special offerings
If you ever have sales, deals, or discount packages, consider sending a personal message to your network to let them know. This will help keep your network engaged with you, as well as give it a VIP feeling for the people you’re connected to.
10. Keep a positive mindset
It’s a tough time to be networking your business. Most people are frustrated by the state of business, networking, and marketing during the pandemic. However, you should always do your best to maintain a positive and resilient mindset. This positivity will make you magnetic to other business owners, and inspire them to keep persevering as well.
Finding spaces to network from home
As you can see, there are a multitude of ways to continue to expand your network in an increasingly online world. While we wait to come back to online networking and face-to-face meetings, you’d be remiss to not take this time to work on your online networking skills.
If you’re a female entrepreneur in the Tri-Cities looking for a great way to make some connections, whether they’re business contacts or new friends, consider attending one of the Valley Women’s Association upcoming events as a guest and start growing your network today.
