Thinking up the right questions is the secret of success when it comes to effective networking. Forget trying to sell, sell, sell and instead think: ask, ask, ask.
Most people approach (or think they should approach) networking like a lion stalking a herd of gazelles: How many sales or leads can I create in the next 2 hours? The problem with this is that everyone else is also in the same frame of mind.
Therefore take a fresh approach and use the time more constructively. Here are some effective networking questions you can ask which will lead to greater success, both long and short term:
Who is your target market?
Find out who the other person is ideally looking to sell to. You can then work out if you know anyone who might benefit from their product or service.
If they serve the same sector or customer with the same income bracket as you do, there is always the possibility of you referring clients to each other in the future.
Are you interested in joint ventures?
Even if you cannot see any reason why you could JV with the person you are chatting to, you may well know someone who could.
This sort of help with no strings attached is so surprising and unexpected that you will almost certainly be asked for your card.
Would you like to swap referrals?
Another hugely unexpected question, and one that creates a total win-win situation for both sides. I refer someone I know to you, and you do the same for me.
Even if a straight swap is not possible at the time, this is something that can always be used in the future (“Hello – remember you kindly referred a new customer to me 6 months ago. Well I haven’t forgotten and I’ve got one for you now.”)
Out-of-the-box questions such as these will enhance your networking experience 100%, and actually make it more fun. You are sure to form some good alliances and end up having a far more sociable time in general at these events.
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