September has a way of making business feel “switched on” again.
After the slower pace of summer, diaries start filling up, events return and there’s a noticeable shift towards planning, connecting and getting things moving before the final quarter of the year.
If networking has slipped down your to-do list over the summer, September is the perfect time to bring it back. But effective networking isn’t about collecting as many business cards as possible. It’s about building genuine relationships that can benefit your business over time.
Here are seven networking habits worth building this autumn.
1. Reconnect with people you already know
Networking doesn’t always mean meeting someone new.
Take a look through your contacts and LinkedIn connections. Who haven’t you spoken to for a while? A simple “How are things going?” message can reopen a conversation that went quiet over the summer.
You could also arrange a coffee, catch-up call or informal meeting with someone you enjoyed connecting with previously.
2. Make networking a regular habit
Don’t wait until you need new clients, suppliers or opportunities before you start networking.
Set yourself a realistic networking goal for September to December. That might be attending one event a month, having two coffee meetings each month or simply reaching out to three existing contacts every Friday.
The key is consistency. Networking works much better as an ongoing habit than a last-minute sales tactic.
3. Be selective about the events you attend
September often brings a busy autumn events calendar, but you don’t need to attend everything.
Before signing up, ask yourself: Will the people there be relevant to my business? Look for events where you’re likely to meet potential clients, referral partners, suppliers or people who understand the challenges you face.
For local businesses, there are some great opportunities this September. The Better Business Show takes place on 17th September at Worthing Leisure Centre, bringing together hundreds of local business owners and professionals. Attendance is free.
The Sussex Business Show follows on 24th September at Brighton Dome, with exhibitors, talks and a dedicated networking zone.
4. Go with a goal
“Network with people” is a bit vague.
Instead, decide what you want to get from the event before you arrive. Perhaps you want to meet three new people, find a potential referral partner or learn something useful from a speaker.
Having a goal gives you something to focus on without turning the whole event into a hunt for sales leads.
5. Ask better questions
One of the easiest ways to make networking conversations more meaningful? Stop worrying about what you’re going to say about your own business.
Ask questions.
“What are you working on at the moment?”
“What’s been keeping you busy?”
“What’s your biggest challenge going into the final quarter?”
Then actually listen to the answers. People are far more likely to remember a good conversation than a rehearsed sales pitch.
6. Follow up properly
Meeting someone is only the beginning.
Within a few days, send a personalised follow-up message. Mention something you discussed rather than sending a generic “Great to meet you!” message.
If you said you would introduce them to someone, send the introduction. Or, if they mentioned an interesting article or resource, share it. If there was a genuine reason to continue the conversation, suggest a coffee or call.
Good follow-up shows that you were listening.
7. Give before you ask
Perhaps the most important networking habit of all: look for ways to be useful.
Recommend someone’s business. Share their post. Introduce them to a useful contact. Pass on a resource. Offer advice where you genuinely can.
Not every networking conversation needs to lead to a sale. In fact, the strongest business relationships often develop because people get to know, trust and support each other first.
September isn’t just about getting “back to business”. It’s an opportunity to build the relationships that could help your business grow throughout the rest of the year, and beyond!
So, before your September diary gets completely packed, who could you reconnect with, and which new conversation could you start?
make it happen..
T: 01903 910546 or E: makeithappen@mbsmih.com