Who likes networking events?  I’m sure those people are out there.  I’m not one of them.  Even as a self-proclaimed extrovert, I still find them intimidating.  It’s like playing a slot machine, you put time and energy in and often get nothing but a watered down cocktail out of the experience.  Even though the odds feel stacked against us, we all know that small business thrives on relationships, connections and marketing.  That’s why you need to do it.  That’s right, I mean you. 

As scary as being faced with a room full of strangers can be, you can take solace that they’re probably nervous about talking to you, too.  So, let’s break it down to a few actionable steps that can help you get real value out of networking opportunities.

• Sidle up to the loners and people at the bar.  You avoid the dangers of interrupting a big group of people who know each other, and you give a potentially awkward person something to do.  It’s a win/win. 
• Ask people meaningful questions.  Here are the three I use most frequently:  “What do you do?” “Do you love it?” If no, "what do you love to do?" If yes, "what makes you passionate about it?"  GUARANTEED INTERESTING CONVERSATION (if you don’t find that this is the case, I’ll buy you a watered down cocktail).
• Follow up.  Get business cards, write a quick note about something that was memorable about the person.  Connect with them on LinkedIn or via email, use the memorable fact that you jotted down to jog their memory about who you are.  
• Stay connected.  Keep notes about who and why you’re connected with them.  I like to use a free customer relationship management system like CapsuleCRM to keep track of notes and remind me to follow up with someone, when necessary.  

You never know when someone you’ve met will turn into business, present an opportunity or offer you a service you’re in need of.  Networking in its various forms has a big payout if you keep playing. 

What's Next?
Would you be interested in a list of Kitsap County/Seattle area networking opportunities?  Let me know in the comments!

I hate it when someone doesn’t practice what they preach.  And that’s what I’ve been doing since I started this crazy business.  I tell you to have a blog, but don’t have a blog.  I tell you to get on Twitter, but don’t have an active twitter account.  Bad Maureen. 

Now, the question you’re probably asking yourself is:  Do >I< need a blog?  I’ve created a three question system to test your theory.  This system is a lot like a Facebook quiz, but instead of being Harry Potter, Hermione and/or Fred and George, you’re going to find out if you need a blog.  Less sex appeal, more real life application.  Here goes: