Networking - Gaining New Relationships

Welcome to Relationship Builder month here at Crafty Communications!  We are going to spend all month sharing tips and tricks for gaining new relationships, following up with new connections, making it personal and entertaining to aid in converting them to advocates.

We have heard the saying time and again - "It's who you know!".  Whether you are looking for a new job, to build your audience, gain new clients or gain an "in" somewhere, that saying applies.  But how do you get to know the right people or new people that may be able to point you in the right direction?

How to make it not cheesy and uncomfortable:

For a long time, I was really not a fan of networking.  But, I think a lot of that was because I was going into it for the wrong reasons.  I stopped going to gain new business, and started going to meet new people.  I find that starting the conversation with something not related to business often got us off to the right start.  Make a comment about something going on at the event, a detail you really like or an element you thought was done really well.  For women, it's even easier, compliment them on something, their shoes or bag.  Always a great way to start a conversation.

Most important, be genuine.  No one likes a hard sell at a networking event.  You don't have to hand your business card off to everyone there.  Make two or three good connections at every event you go to and you will start to build up contacts in no time.

Networks we Love! 

Meet Up - If there is a group for something, you will probably find it on Meet Up.  And I mean, they really have a group for everything!  You can search by location and then type of group you are interested in.  Most are free to attend, some have small fees.  A great one for professional and personal groups.   

Portland Business Journal - they put together power breakfasts with dynamic speakers, workshops, luncheons and conferences throughout the year to help connect with other professionals in the area.

Crave Portland - meet other women of vision and insight at their monthly Crave Chats with panel style discussions.  Not only can you interact with the presentation on great topics, but you get to meet other fabulous women in Portland.  (They have chapters in most major cities.)

American Marketing Association - Have great monthly meetings with educational topics great for marketers or business owners looking for marketing assistance.  (also nationwide!)

Schmooze - Schmooze is a networking event here in Portland developed for business leaders, entrepreneurs and job seekers looking to connect with the local business community.  It's held 6 times a year, open to the public, and free! P.S. We really dig the name!

Cheers!

Kristen