3 Steps to adding Networking to your 2010 Marketing Plan
Women
As you build your 2010 Marketing Plan remember to include networking. Networking is still a key strategy to start conversations with other professionals, industry experts and potential customers.
- Research local networking events based on 3 focus areas: professionals in your business, industry experts and potential customers
- Set up a networking calendar for the next 3 months
- Create a networking follow-up plan
1. After you have identified your 3 focus areas research sources for current events and association event listings. Your local Chamber of Commerce is a good place to start. Also look online for industry groups and forums.
2. When you start to set up your networking calendar decide on a goal for each networking event. Do you want to: meet potential customers, talk with other industry professionals to learn new industry updates or do you want to be seen as an industry leader. Going to a networking event with a predefined goal will help you make the most of your time spent. It will also help you prepare for the event. If you want to be seen as an industry leader you could research a new article on your industry to share at the event when you are talking with others. As you exchange business cards write down the event name, date and a quick note about the person who gave you their card. This will help you with following up in a more personalized manner.
3. Creating a follow-up plan will help you maximize your efforts. Before you attend the event if you already have a follow-up letter outlined you can easily send a thank-you, or enjoyed meeting you follow-up note, card or e-mail the next morning.
