The single most time-consuming, yet valuable skill that is required of all entrepreneurs is networking. 


Based on an article by Ivan Misner, Founder and CEO of BNI, people who have benefited from networking and seen an increase in their business spend on average six-and-a-half hours per week dedicated to building up their contacts. That is around 26 hours spent per month and 312 hours in a year. 


What a pity it would be if this amount of time invested is wasted due to a couple of unnecessary mistakes. 


Below, we explore the TOP Three Mistakes people commonly make when it comes to networking – costing them not only time but wasted effort and money. Avoid these three mistakes:  


MISTAKE #1: Only Sitting with People You Know


The first point seems like a no-brainer but you will be surprised how easy it is to make this mistake. It comes naturally to most of us when we attend an event, see someone we know, say ‘hi’ and before we know it, we’re with them for the rest of the event.

While you don’t have to be aloof and avoid people you’ve met before, always remember to spare some time approaching and introducing yourself to new people. The easiest way is to set a goal for yourself. Say, for a six-hours event, tell yourself that you will try to exchange name cards with at least 50% of the crowd.


MISTAKE #2: Not Dressing Up For the Occasion


We get it, you don’t always have time to dress up – You barely sleep, you work 14 – 16 hours a day and you have meetings after meetings. The last thing on your mind is to look good. As superficial as it sounds, building a network starts with looking good. 


When you arrive at an event, almost everyone is a stranger. They won’t know anything about your past achievements or how capable you are. The only thing that will help you stand out is how you look – do you look like a successful boss or someone influential?


That doesn’t mean that you have to wear a gown/suit everywhere you go. Ensuring that your hair is neat, your attire is not too flashy or revealing will help you appear well-groomed. For men, remember to tidy up your facial hair and for ladies, putting on light make-up will perk up your features and does wonders especially if you’ve been running on little sleep daily. 


MISTAKE #3: Not Following-up After The Event 


Once you’ve met your quota of exchanging name cards and mingling, your job is done right? Far from it! After meeting so many people, your new contact may forget little details about you. Establish your connection by sending a follow-up email 1 – 2 days after the event. Perhaps share a picture that you took together at the event, or simply tell them that it was great meeting them at the event! 


Most people like adding each other on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram or professionally on Linkedin, which is a great way to continue engagement by liking each other’s posts. 

 

If you are wondering what opportunities are out there to network with other matchmakers, come join us at the London Global Love Conference from September 24 – 25!


There will be plenty of chances to network and engage with like-minded professionals who are as passionate as you – to help singles and grow their business x 10 times.


It’s time to put these tips to good use!


Follow this link to find out more: https://matchmakinginstitute.com/london-2019/


Written by Adrina Ong