Referral Networking Groups

Are you building a business from the ground up? Do you need a sales team but don’t have it in the budget? How can you get people on the street to tell your story?

Join a business networking group!

The concept of relationship-based business development is cost effective and will bring “perfect customers” to your door. Research groups such as Business Network International (BNI) or something comparable in your area. Attend meetings on a trial basis to get a sense of the professionalism of the group.

Here are key elements to be successful in a networking group:

·        Commit to the meetings and arrive early

·        Take a leadership role

·        Do not pitch your services

·        Build relationships and trust

·        Develop a “how can I help you” approach

·        Prepare a “perfect customer” profile to share with your peers

·        Give, and ask for warm introductions…not leads

·        Follow up on every introduction. Update the person giving the referral on the status.

·        Initiate quality, thoughtful introductions to peers that you trust

·        Schedule one on one time with all other group members to build depth to your relationship.

Commit to this process and soon you will have a large network looking out for you, and vice versa.