Networking - time to go offline!

Real life networking is something that many people have given up over the years because they feel that being online, and in social networks is more than enough. Perhaps in some cases this can be true, but for most of us, a little networking every now and then could do wonders.

Where can I go for networking?
Anywhere really. Try going down to your local coffee shop, or newspaper stand and chat up some people. It doesn't always have to be a formal networking event, just make sure you aren't that weird guy who everyone runs away from!

There are also speed networking events, which are just like speed dating events where you meet with a dozen or so people for a few minutes at a time. This is a great scenario because you get a chance to meet more people in less time than a traditional networking event such as a social. It also gets those shy people to feel more at ease in a one on one discussion environment.

What am I looking to gain from a networking event?
That really depends on you. Some people are happy to walk away with a half dozen new business cards, while others will be happy with a new lead or agreement with one of the other attendees. Before you go to the event be sure you know what you want to get out of it. If you just show up and say "I wonder what will happen", you will never know if it as worth going or not.

On the other hand if you decide before you get to the event that you want to get 5 business cards to follow up with, than you have a definable goal. You will know at the end of the night just by looking at the cards if you achieved your goal and if the event was worth attending.

What type of business is networking for?
Any business really. Whether you are selling widgets at a town store front or working as a B2B business, networking never hurts. You may meet someone who knows people that would love your product, or that you can team up with to sell things together. There are really no limits to what you might find when you get out there and start talking to people.

Remember: Its not always just about your product or service, but also about who you know and meet.

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