The Number One Secret To Getting Clients
Networking.
Thanks for reading. See you soon!
Just kidding…You know I won’t leave you hanging like that!
Does the phrase “networking” strike fear in your heart? Perhaps it calls to mind lame corporate mixers where strangers awkwardly ask each other the same questions over and over?
The truth is, networking can - and should! - happen spontaneously any place, any time, with any one (all within reason). So let’s erase some stigma about “networking”…heck, let’s just redefine it altogether.
First, let’s break it down:
What is networking?
In it’s simplest form, and truly the only form that matters, networking is talking to people about your business. I know….DUH. But hear me out: it’s just casual conversation. This is not the slimy “What’s it going to take to get you driving off in a Buick today?” used car salesman vibe.
The point of networking is to build connections with people who are interested in your offerings.
The keys to networking: Connections, People, Interest, Offerings.
Where does networking happen?
Gone are the days when networking required a stuffy room full of stuffy people talking about their stuffy accounting jobs. Today, networking for your business happens EVERY. WHERE. ALL. THE. TIME.
What’s our new definition?
Our new definition of networking is just sharing! Sharing what you do, sharing how you help clients, how you solve their problems, and the amazing results they experience.
But how? Here are some tips:
Despite what our moms taught us, it’s sometimes ok to talk to strangers - this is one of those times! Strike up a conversation with that person at the grocery, at your kid’s soccer game, or at the wine bar.
Show and tell is not just for kids. Have before and after photos on your phone, ready to display. I love the app PicCollage for this - super easy to make side-by-side grids that are so effective to showcase results. There’s a free version, but I recommend the paid version (appx $40/year) to remove the PicCollage watermark.
Tell your friends what you do…and ask them to tell their friends. Referrals are the best source of business, and your friends are the best source.
Host a friends and family event, or a public open house, or a meet and greet with your neighbors. This is a casual way to interact with interested prospects and share more of your services.
Ask others what they do for a living, and they will ask you the same in return.
Have a short “elevator pitch” ready. Max 30 seconds, telling who you are, what you do, and what problems you solve. More on this in a future post!
How to get started
Once you have honed your elevator pitch and built your library of photos, the best way to do it is to do it. More repetitions will make you more comfortable….even if this means practicing out loud with your spouse, friends, or pets.
Need help refining your message and branding? Ask about our coaching offerings.
