The Art of Business Networking

Business networking is an art.

As an entrepreneur, you better be good at mastering and operating this art. Later on in this blog you will find some helpful network tips for anyone to use at any networking event!
We all know and understand that networking is about building business relationships that are sustainable and mutually beneficial.

Benefits of business networks are:

• It ensures that you meet the right people for your (net)work to increase your influence and meet potential business relations. 
• You are able to bring your products and services to a very personal level. Such relationships make you notice and get beyond the noise of ads, e-mails and arbitrary sales pitches. Your network generates trust and makes what you have to offer credible. 
• Even more importantly, it helps you to connect with a wider group of people with whom you can share your ideas, challenges and opportunities. And of course meet new prospects, customers, new employees or even a mentor or business partner.
  

Helpful Tips

The 10 following tips could help you to network more easily, more effectively and with more fun.Just read them by picking the most convenient ones for you and especially - use them when you are online and see the results for your business.

1. A networking event is a business meeting so treat it as well. Be prepared and always come on time. 
2. Early attendance also has the advantage that you can speak to the host. If you have had the chance to see the list of participants, you can ask the host to introduce you to someone who seems to be worth the effort. 
3. If you find it difficult to approach others, look for someone who looks like you feel. The other one will be happy to make him comfortable and so the meeting for both of you will be finer. 
4. Avoid juggling with plates and glasses and free your right hand shaking hands. 
5. A straight attitude testifies to success. Take as little as possible to ensure that you are bent and blocked in your movement. 
6. Take the initiative to introduce people together. People who are unfamiliar with themselves will be grateful to you for this and will also benefit your reputation as a good networker. 
7. Do not just ask people what they are doing. That only encourages them to say: "I'm in purchasing (for example)". Try: "What have you been doing this week?" This gives them a chance to talk about something more interesting and gives you the chance to see if there are any problems you can help them with. 
8. Focus on helping others. What problems do you solve for your customers, or what dreams do you fulfill? 
9. Request permission for a follow-up call, always follow up and send further information. Stay in charge! 
10. Continued contact is the next step in building a relationship. One call definitely is not enough. Be proactive in maintaining contact.

By following (some of) these rules, you will find out that people really are coming back to you once they are looking for your product or service! 

About Hospro

HOSPRO|Hospitality Procurement prides itself on being a bit different. Traditional values are sustained and a good reputation is something to be proud of. Good business is building lasting relationships, helping us to grow our assets together. With a background in international hospitality and procurement services for some 30 years, our combination of market knowledge and expertise ensures the best possible service for our business relations. We support our clienteles with specific recommendations and references to stay focused on the total process.