Hello. My name is _________. How are you? If the conversation ever stops here, you are in some serious trouble.
The number one problem that entrepreneurs face, especially start-up companies is their inability to connect. For most, the typical conversation starts this way, and perhaps, ends with a “So, what do you do for a living?” But as an entrepreneur, if you never go beyond the idea of “what’s in it for me,” you will miss the moment every single time.
That’s a fact.
Think about the last time someone tried to sell you something. Within the first 5 minutes of the conversation, you were able to see past their seemingly angelic face, and see their ulterior motives. In the same sense, this is the dilemma of the entrepreneur.
The essential component to the function and longevity of any business can be described within one word: people.
So, the question is: How do you engage people? This 3-Step Guide will teach you how to establish relationships and partnerships in order to grow your business on a larger scale.
Step 1: Understand Your Purpose How many times have you gone to a Professional Networking Event without a purpose? I can honestly, ashamedly say, "I have - once.” This is perhaps the worst thing you can do because you essentially have no expectation of the event nor have you identified ways to engage people.
So, before you go, identify your purpose.
What are you seeking to accomplish as a result of going to this event? Sure, you want to network, but how does this align with your strategic goal and/or plan. In addition, you must know what you bring to the table - What fuels you? What are your strengths and weaknesses? What skill sets do you possess?
Your goal is simple - identify how you can help others. If you go in with this goal, it will eliminate any ulterior motives that you may have originally had, and it will allow you an opportunity to create genuine, authentic relationships.
Step 2: Ask Questions & Listen Intently People love to talk about themselves, but rarely do we listen. Build your network by asking questions and listening intently to those responses. You will then use those answers to establish connections between you and that particular individual. As a result, you will be able to identify the need and make a lasting connection to others in the room.
Embrace your role as a connector, and operate within it. Because you are looking to build genuine relationships. Never disregard anyone on the basis of a position and/or title because you never know the magnitude of a person’s network.
Step 3: Engage & Connect Engagement requires an investment. You will never get an investment if you are unable to genuinely engage people in conversation. So, ask the question, “How can I help you reach your goal? What is it that you need?”
Networking is about establishing continual relationships, and as entrepreneurs, if we do not see the initial value then we assume it is not there. But that is a lie. So, establish the relationship - present them your business card or connect them to your LinkedIn account.
We all have a network, but in plain sight, we often only see one individual. Explore your connections by intentionally seeking genuine relationships. If you do this, you will be able to cultivate your circle, and allow your circle to work with and for you.
You wouldn’t marry someone after the first date, so why are we, as entrepreneurs so quick to rush that which requires an investment?
It's 100% Relational.