How to Network Like A Boss
In the process of launching our PR and marketing business, networking was and continues to be one of the most powerful strategies to grow our brand.
Seizing the opportunity to connect with other like-minded entrepreneurs or potential clients can be an invaluable experience that can help motivate and inspire while creating new business opportunities through connections and word of mouth.
But networking can also be intimidating! Whether it’s taking the leap to invite someone to coffee or attending an event specifically designed to mix and mingle, putting yourself out there can feel overwhelming.
We spoke to a few entrepreneurs from around the city, and included a tip of our own, to curate a list of expert advice on how to work any room and handle your next networking appointment like a pro.
“As I am working to grow my network, I start with research. Generally there is an impetus behind the desire to expand professional relationships which can include a new project, looking for a new hire, or launching a job search. I start with a vision on the types of organizations that would be a fit for my goals. I then decide who in the organization would be the best person to both influence a decision on my ask or if they would be a decision maker. From there, I use both business articles and linkedin to choose who it is I’d like to meet. Then, I simply put milestone goals in place of meeting one of those people each week or connecting with someone in my existing network who might be able to make a warm introduction. Finally, I make it a point to continually grow my network and nurture my existing network. I have made it a personal goal to take one business meeting a week that is simply to connect with someone new or meet with someone in my network that I haven’t seen recently.”
– Danielle McDowell, Startup Founder and Community Activist
“Reach out to those who were once in a similar situation because they can help you think about how to get to the next step. Think back to those who have been influential in your career and continue those relationships. It’s an opportunity to leverage their network to build your own. Building relationships are so valuable and one day you can pass along help to others in a similar way. There’s not another “boss-like” way to network and empower others than continuing this chain of support.”
– Raquel Richardson, Practice Lead, Centric Consulting
“The paradox of networking is that it doesn’t work if you’re intending to network. Instead, you must enjoy reaching out to meet new people, finding out what’s special about them to become trusted friends. If the purpose is to use someone for business, you’ll be rejected – people call tell when you’re using them. If you love to meet new people and partner with them if it’s appropriate, you will thrive. It’s an equal give /take relationship when you really care.”
– Lou Russell, Moser Consulting
“It might sound counterintuitive, but instead of working the room and meeting as many people as I can, I go into conferences and networking events with the goal of making 1-2 deep, substantial connections. Feeling as if you need to meet everyone can be exhausting, plus it’s unrealistic. Spend more time with fewer people. Ask questions. Think about how you can continue a relationship digitally or in person long after the conference ends. I have found these types of relationships to be far more beneficial in terms of building a lasting network.”
– Haley Bakker, Co-founder of Whirlaway Marketing
As the daughter of two small business owners, Katherine always pictured herself starting her own business. It is this passion that fuels her enthusiasm for creating plans and strategies that move the needle for businesses big and small. With experience and expertise in SEO, marketing strategy, social media, marketing automation and data analysis, Katherine brings a wide array of skills that help create results-driven plans for Whirlaway clients.