Business professionals, students and entrepreneurs can use networking as an effective tool for sales, marketing, research and build a professional network. A part of networking is following up with potential clients, customers and colleagues and building relationships. The manner in which you present yourself and your company is crucial. Also, the way in which you communicate is very important and effects the relationships that you are trying to maintain.
After meeting someone at a networking event, it is important to follow up with that person and beginning building a premature relationship. You should take the time to learn as much as you can about your business counterpart and eventually conduct business for ongoing success. A good and direct way to follow up with your business counter part is to contact them via phone. Listed below are tips on connecting with others in an effective and timely manner.
Tip #1
When you decide to call your business counterpart, make sure that you are calling them within a reasonable hour. Keep in mind that people are busy and time is a very important asset. You should not schedule your phone call too early in the morning or too late in the afternoon/evening. Phone calls should generally be made after lunch time. Usually professionals are less busy and have more time to take and conduct business before the day is over.
Tip #2
If you call your business counterpart and he/she is not available always leave a message. In your message, you should be concise and speak clearly and slowly on the voice message. In the message, you should include your contact information and number so that your counter part can write down the message and reach you quickly. Also have an upbeat or cheerful tone and rehearse your message so that you refrain from making mistakes or repeating yourself.
Tip #3
Follow up the phone message with an email message. Many times, people can accidently delete a phone message or fail to receive it for various reasons. To avoid any confusion or delays, it is highly recommended that you send out a short email message informing your counterpart that you are trying to get in touch with them. It is a subtle way of follow up but it is not pushy or overbearing.
Chi Chi Okezie is owner/producer of SIMPLEnetworking, LLC in Metro-Atlanta, GA. Newly published author of "SIMPLEnetworking: Creating Opportunities ... The new form of success!" View excerpts of the book and polish your professional approach: http://www.snseminars.com
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