Networking is a skill that can be fine-tuned like any other. Effectiveness at increasing one’s scope of favorable contacts takes effort, sincerity, and community- mindedness.
This article will give you specific guidelines to help you make your networking yield more results.

1. Register early. Mark it on your calendar.
2. Arrive early, leave children at home, and dress professionally.
3. Display your materials with consideration (take up no more than 12 inches of space on
the table).
4. Approach people you do not know and after introducing yourself, ask them specific
questions about their business. Look for ways you can link with that professional and
swap leads and ideas to grow one another’s business.
5. Keep moving and try to meet several people.
6. Stretch your comfort zone and purposefully sit with people you do not know. Actively
and respectfully listen to other’s introductions. DO NOT TALK WHEN OTHERS
ARE TALKING . Remember you want the same courtesy when its time for your
introduction.
7. Turn off cell phones. If you must leave them on silent notice then leave the room to
take your call. Even “quiet” talking on the phone is disruptive and inconsiderate.
8. Give courteous attention to all speakers- this means do not talk, or you may miss
important information about your networking group’s upcoming plans.
9. Use a newsletter to promote your business by advertising (low cost; great
visibility) or by writing an article.
10. Exchange business cards with new contacts with whom you could do business or
send referrals. Make plans to follow up either by a letter or making a lunch date.
Personal relationships make networking work.
11. Join the organization Guests are limited to attend 3 times then they cannot attend
luncheons without joining. This protects you, the member by encouraging members
to do business with other members.
12. Serve on a committee. The Board needs and wants your input and it’s a great way to
be known!

I hope these networking guidelines are helpful to you.
Marjorie Johnson,
Executive Coach and Corporate Trainer

937 Prichard Lane · West Chester, PA 19382

(610) 696-4443