I had an interesting meeting in Leonardo's Cafe, Hull yesterday with Tom Salter. Tom runs the Best of in Hull and Beverley providing on line networking and marketing services. Essentially he runs an online business networking site. After discussing how we might help one another we had a general conversation about business networking in Hull and the Humber.
We have a plethora of networking opportunities in Hull and the East Riding, speed networking events organised through the Chamber and referral networking through BforB. There can be no doubt that more and more businesses are realising that social media marketing, Facebook, HTML e-mail shots, cold calling or flyers are all good in themselves, but all they do is compliment the fundamental, people doing business with people. The bottom lie about my meeting with Tom was I wanted to meet him because of hs good personal reputation, he appeared to be a person with whom I could develop a Know Like and Trust relationship and requested an introduction through LinkedIN.
So here is a checklist of things to look out for if you are looking to involve yourself in professional networking:
1. Professionalism. No good getting involved in a networking group that is like some kind of social club. Without a professional structure cliques can form and the opportunities for successful networking can elude new or less assertive members.
2. Access to advice on networking tips and skills to develop best practice.
3. An agenda that is driven by a recognition of the fact that people do business with people. A networking organisation that promotes relationships will ultimately produce better long-term business. This depends on the attitude of members, "What's in it for me now?" attitude will only get short term limited returns. Check out this link on the Ten Commandments of Business networking.
You will find all these 3 key markers at your local BforB group. Check us out at the Pearson park Hotel, 23rd February.
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