Make your business a talking point

Jan 18 2010 By Carole White, The Journal

NETWORKING is a real buzz word. Everyone talks about how important it is for businesses to take every opportunity, both formally and informally.

So how important is investment in networking? No matter how good your business or business idea is, it is very unlikely that you will be able to achieve success on your own. Spending time developing contacts and drawing upon the expertise and contacts of others is essential if you want your business to achieve a real competitive edge.

Whether you need help to develop your technology, need to brush up your skills or are looking for new channels of distribution, networking and building up key contacts can give you the know-how you need. Indeed know-how is fine, but know-who is even more important. People do business with other people; the element of trust that is created through effective networking is invaluable to your business so it is important to make a great impression at events.

What are the top tips to help make the most of networking?

Conversation

Keep conversation to neutral topics, avoid monopolising the conversation.

Comfort zone

For every person you meet and every hour you spend with them, they will make 10 recommendations on your behalf.

Business cards

If people are interested in what you do they will ask for a card – don’t offer your card at the outset.

Taking notes

As a memory aid it can often be useful to make notes about a person on the back of their business card.

Follow up

Follow up with people you’ve met and add contacts to your database.

Check out networking groups in your area – The Chamber of Commerce, business clubs, traders’ associations, Women Into the Network and Service Network are a good start. Tedco’s business support team will be more than happy to help you to identify potential useful networks and contacts.

:: If you require any further support or advice please call Tedco on 0191 428 3535, e-mail bussupport@tedco.org or visit us at www.tedco.org

Carole White is business support manager at Tedco