Blog Entry

When it comes to networking, you’re probably already well-versed in all of the traditional methods that sales professionals use to reach out and make new connections with prospects, mentors, and business contacts. Typically, the routine goes something like this: attend industry event, shake hands, exchange pleasantries, make small talk, pass out business cards, and repeat.

But while this scenario might represent the most common approach to business networking, it is by no means the only one. There are dozens, if not hundreds of novel ways that you can begin to forge new connections and lay the foundation for potentially beneficial business partnerships. Sometimes, sticking to the traditional way of doing things can leave you with less-than-satisfactory results. If you’ve grown dissatisfied with the level of success you’ve been able to reap using standard networking techniques, it may be time to consider a new approach.

Are you ready to break out of your rut and maximize your networking ROI? Try incorporating a few of these out-of-the-box ideas and strategies into your new and improved meet-and-greet routine.

Join the club.  Don’t wait for the next trade show or industry gathering to try to network. Instead, focus on venues and events that transcend many different sectors and industries. One great place to start is local and regional business clubs, chambers of commerce, and networking groups, whose member firms typically transect a broad cross-section of fields and sectors.

Think connections, rather than sales.  Don’t make the mistake of rolling out your hard-sell spiel when you should be focusing on ice-breaking chit-chat and exchanging names and numbers. Try to look at networking as an end unto itself, rather than the obligatory song and dance you have to dispense with before you can roll out your sales pitch.

Feed the network.  One surefire way to limit the effectiveness of your networking efforts is to approach the process focused solely on what you can get out of it. Most top networking experts agree that the process is bidirectional in nature; in other words, the benefits of networking accrue in proportion to the effort you expend. Aim to be a selfless, proactive agent of connection and betterment in your networks.

Go virtual.  Much has been said about the networking potential of online applications such as Facebook and LinkedIn. But to really make the most of these online networks, you’ve got to do more than just create an account and then log in every few weeks to approve friend requests. Explore each application’s advanced search functionalities and recommendation tools to seek out high-value networking partners in your region and sector.

Create your own opportunities.  If you’re still not getting the kind of results you’re looking for, consider creating your own venue or event for networking. The possibilities are limitless: you could initiate a monthly business dinner, a quarterly IT industry meet-and-greet, an annual award for excellence in your field, a local or regional business networking website—or any other event or venue that makes sense for your firm and offers value to those you’d like to get to know.

What’s your best tip for non-traditional networking success? How do stand out from the crowd and make a positive first impression at industry events? Lend us your insight in the comments.