Small Business Boomers

A few days ago I talked about Baby Boomers getting back into the job market and some possible networking resources, if you decide to start a new business or to go back into the work world full-time or part-time.   So how do you make contact with people at networking events and expand your network of possibilities?  Here are some tips for networking:

•  Attend local networking events.  It’s been said that 90% of success is just showing up.  That’s true with networking.  Showing up gets you talking to the right people.  Some possible networking events/meetings: Local chamber of commerce meetings, Business Network International (BNI) get-togethers, Toastmasters International meetings, other local networking organizations like the one in New York City (Boomer Biz Events).
• Come prepared to network.  Dress professionally, have your business cards ready, and prepare your “elevator speech” (a one-minute statement about your business).
• Plan your strategy.  What do you want to accomplish at this meeting?  How many people do you want to contact? What kinds of people do you want to meet? This is one instance where “failing to plan is planning to fail” is true.
• Focus on others, not on yourself. Everyone is there for networking, so focusing on what the other person wants to tell you gets you more than just talking about yourself and your business.  Follow the 25/75 rule – 25% self-promotion, 75% listening.
• Keep moving.  You are there to meet lots of people, so don’t get drawn into a long conversation with just one person.  Exchange cards and agree to meet later.
• Ask for referrals.  At a networking event, people expect to be networking, not just chit-chatting.  Don’t be afraid to ask people to help you by giving you the name of a possible contact.  Get in the habit of asking and it won’t seem so intimidating.
• Categorize contacts and follow up.  Immediately after the event, categorize the contacts you made into (a) people you really want to talk to about business possibilities, (b) people who can put you in touch with others, and (c) nice people who probably can’t help you right now.  But you never know, so keep their business cards.  Then follow up within a day or two with the people in groups A and B.

Bottom line:  When you are starting back into the business world, go to networking events with a plan and work that plan.  Don’t just trust to fate.

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