Talk about the secrets to effective networking…just last week, I said YES to an innocent “what are you doing right now?” question from a complete stranger and guest what?!?
I gained two new clients, a new referral partner, and a connection to an upcoming collaboration. TRUE STORY!!
Y’all… let me tell you something. STOP SITTING BEHIND YOUR COMPUTER aimlessly scrolling social hoping that your business will suddenly skyrocket.
It doesn’t happen like that. I know marketing gurus preach to just “storytell” or post beautifully curated pictures, or pay enough in ad spend and then retarget retarget retarget… but guess what…⠀
Without immense strategy, constant dedication, and understanding that only a fraction of your following (those vanity numbers you’re fighting so hard to gain) will actually buy from you… you’ll be left defeated.
But, what if you tried something simpler? What if you decided to step away from the scroll and chose to actually talk to someone face to face (ok… zoom may have to do for now)? What if you got results from just one connection?
Enter…the power of networking. It’s time for a plan.
So, I’ve compiled a list of ways to make networking easier. Let’s get it, mama!
The Secrets to Effective Networking
Effective Networking Tip 1: Be Intentionally Helpful
Schedule it in your calendar. Actually set aside a time to be helpful. I know, sister, it sounds crazy. But think about that text message that you never responded to because, well, life. So even though it feels weird to be intentional about being helpful, believe me, it works.
Here are two ways to fill in your “be helpful” time:
Make an impact on your current sphere of influence.
The people that you are already connected with are invaluable to you and your business. So show them that you are also invaluable to them! Here are ways to be helpful when it comes to your circle:
- Connect two people that you know could help each other
- Share an article with someone that you know would find it valuable
- Read an awesome professional growth book lately? Share that with a few people!
- Have you learned something new that would apply to one of your fellow momtrepreneurs? Tell them!
- Share a recent course or webinar you attended that you felt was worth its time and/or money.
- Just send an encouraging note, text, or message. It goes a long way!
Check relevant Facebook groups and provide value.
Don’t just join these momtrepreneur groups to take, take, and take some more. One of the core qualities of an effective networker is someone who provides value! So let’s be intentional about it.
Pro Tip: Go to the targeted Facebook group and use the search function. Type in the keyword for your industry. If you are an SEO expert, type in “SEO.” Are you a web developer? Type in “website.” Search for things that you know you can add value to.
And then guess what? Add value. Give them the information they are asking for without expecting anything in return. Because believe me, if you do this enough, you will land a client, a referral partner, a collaboration, a spot as a speaker at an event, and the list goes on! Trust me, the active members of the group will remember your name when they see it pop up over and over.
Are you in a mom entrepreneur group yet? Here are a few of our favorite free groups:
- MOMpire
- Boss Moms
- Mom to Momtrepreneur
- Also make sure to join groups that are specific to your target audience. If your target market is moms, join some local mom groups!
Effective Networking Tip 2: Seek Genuine Connection
Nobody likes a faker. And nobody likes a spammer. It’s not hard to be genuine on social media. Here are ways to genuinely connect with other amazing entrepreneurs and potential clients:
Scroll your IG feed and give valuable and personalized comments.
Here is my rule…if I don’t care about the post, I don’t comment on it. Because, well, that would be ingenious, right?
The whole point here is to connect with the people that are your people.
So scroll through Instagram and when you love what someone has to say, share your true thoughts and opinions in the comments! Don’t generalize your comment by saying something like, “love it [insert cute emoji].” Actually tell them why you loved it so much. THAT is a genuine connection.
Join mastermind groups.
Another strategy for effective networking is digging deeper with a group of business owners that are on your level. There is nothing more genuine than being vulnerable about your business with a group of fellow mamas who are working hard to create their empires. You will be sure to form amazing relationships in these mastermind groups which will then lead to referrals, collaborations, and new clients.
Celebrate wins!
If you see a fellow mama having a win, big or small, CELEBRATE BIG TIME! Put all of the emojis, shoot them a text on the side to tell them how excited you are for them, and encourage them to keep on going. Seriously…even if the win is “my kid didn’t pee the bed last night…” WINNING!! This is genuine. This feels good.
Effective Networking Tip 3: Connect With Referral Partners
Actively searching for referral partners is not only a part of networking, it’s the lifeline of networking. The downfall of businesses is often the lack of leads. So, mama, focus on building up your referral network.
Find your perfect referral partners.
Here are some quick questions to ask about a potential referral partner. Is their industry closely related to yours? Would their ideal client also make great clients for you? Is there a connection but not too much overlap? Is this a person that is reliable? Do I like them? ALL GREAT QUESTIONS!!
Just like my story from the beginning of this blog, putting yourself out there and saying, “yes,” will take you places. But it will only work if you are being helpful, genuine, and connecting with other awesome entrepreneurs. If I hadn’t positioned myself in the right way, I’m sure I wouldn’t have been asked to that coffee chat.
If you’re looking for a group of mom entrepreneurs who are consistently connecting and celebrating each other, we would love to have you join the MOMpire Community!
So, mama, it’s time to go network like a boss! Have fun and be yourself…and don’t forget to come back here and tell me what amazing connections you are making!
