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Networking for Potential Customers and Prospects

By: Linda Hampton

In Home Based Business networking may be one of the oldest forms of advertising. Traditionally, business people would attend designated “networking meetings” where they would meet other people and exchange business cards in the hope that one of the people they talked to would send some clients their way.

Other business people have realized that networking can be done anywhere, not just at designated meetings. These people often carry business cards with them at all times and may strike up a conversation with the person in front of them in line at the grocery store or sitting next to them at the Little League game.

The internet has given networking a new life and people are now turning to social networking sites in order to meet new potential business partners and clients.

It doesn’t matter which form it takes place in, networking is essentially a way of marketing your business through building relationships with other people. Some of these people may turn into your clients, some may be a source of clients, and others may actually become future business partners.

Networking has many benefits. Generally speaking, it is a free activity. It can take up some of a person’s time, but other than that, there really is no cost to it. It is important to note that some networking groups do require a membership fee, but it is very easy to find many free networking opportunities.

In many circumstances, a networking situation will lead to word of mouth advertising, which is extremely valuable. For example, if a web designer meets someone through a networking group or through a social networking website and establishes a connection, that person may recommend them to several people they know on a personal level.

As you know, when someone sees an ad they take it with a grain of salt. They know it is advertising. But when someone receives a recommendation from a person they know and trust, they often follow that person’s recommendation and buy the services or products that have been recommended to them.

Here are a few great belly to belly networking techniques:

* Do not be afraid to initiate a handshake; people may be shy and will be waiting for you to introduce yourself.
* Be enthusiastic and smile. People love to be around positive, caring individuals.
* Never complain about anything, not even the weather or traffic.
* Always introduce people who do not know one another, and be sure to not leave anyone out of the introduction.
* At networking events, it is good to stand near the food or dessert tables where people are more relaxed and talkative. People like to chat during meals when their blood sugar is higher, which puts them in a good mood.
* Listen 80 percent of the time; talk 20 percent of the time. People want someone who will listen to them, and you may learn something new.
* Make good eye contact when talking. It shows interest and sincerity.
* Avoid being held hostage. Chat for no more than eight to ten minutes with one individual. You are there to meet as many people as possible. To end a conversation politely, you can say, “It was a pleasure talking with you,” then move on. If they won’t let you go, excuse yourself to use the washroom.

Whether done face to face or over the internet, it does take time to build relationships with other people. Some easy ways to get things started may be to spark up a conversation about something you have in common with the other person, or to offer help or advice to them.

The effects of networking may not be seen overnight, but over time a person will start to receive calls or emails from potential customers saying that they were referred by so-and-so. This lets the person know that their networking has paid off.

Linda Hampton

Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com

Linda Hampton, Life Style Mentor and Successful Entrepreneur, is helping many become the next success story. Whether you're looking to create an extra few thousand dollars per month, be an ex-corporate executive, or the next millionaire Mom, Linda can assist you to create a second stream of income and greater peace of mind. visit : netweb-ads.com/lindahampton">Entrepreneur

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