Nonprofit Networking Tips...

Have you ever thought of networking? Yes/No

No matter what the answer is just remember this:

Social and Business Networking takes you to a higher level.

Networking is perfect for professionals who want to increase their brand awareness and meet potential clients, partners or bosses. However, there are lots of groups to choose from – ladies-only business networking, Chamber of Commerce meetings etc.

Here are a few things to consider before joining a networking event:

What do you know? – What is your passion and skill set?  Do you want to stick within that topic or branch out?

Do your research – There will be lots of local networking opportunities around you, so research them and choose the couple that suit you the best.

Find out who will be there – You don’t want to book a seat at a networking event just to get there and see either no-one or people who don’t share the same passion and interests as you. Before booking your place, give the organizer a call and see who will be going.

Sometimes even if the topics are different, you still meet great people.

Are you prepared? – Come prepared for any situation. You are here to showcase yourself so be prepared. Dress for the event, business casual works great for both personal and business networking.

Have business cards available! If you are searching for new business opportunities make sure you leave people with a way to contact you. Don’t write your number on a cocktail napkin this isn’t the club.

So now you know what to consider when choosing a network event, but what TYPE of networking event do you want to go to?

Casual Networking – These are usually groups who meet on a monthly basis, and there are no restrictions on the number of people represented from each profession. They tend to be quite informal, so make sure you mix with anyone and everyone. Once again take a LOT of business cards.

Strong Networking – These are groups that meet on a regular basis (weekly) for the primary purpose of sharing their referrals and making new business contacts. These meeting are geared for sales more than anything else.

Online Networking –Online business and social networking is extremely popular. You can network from your own sofa! Still follow all the rules. First impressions are very important but be careful of what you put online because that impression will last a life time.

Good Luck