The concept of networking is not new, in fact, there have been various techniques that go back hundreds of years. However, the concept of networking remains the same. It is a business activity, with the sole purpose of promoting business amongst other business owners, peers, friends or those with a similar interest to you and/or your organisation. It is based on the help and be helped principle! Some of the advantages of networking are:
Most cost-effective form of selling
Networking is a cost-efficient method of doing business or achieving a goal. The cost of running a network remains the lowest out of any other business activity, as costs are shared amongst the network members.
Opportunity to meet people with similar direction
Through networking you have the ability to mingle and do business with other business professionals with similar business interests or goals to your own.
Access to new products or services
You may gain access to useful products or services. For example – you may now be able to make use of training facilities at a reduced rate. Obviously this would be a mutually beneficial relationship.
Sharing of ideas
It often happens that we generate ideas from industries that differ from our own, especially when they have similar systems, processes or programmes to our own. Through networking, we have the opportunity to share and exchange ideas.
Constructive criticism
Any feedback is positive, regardless of being criticised or praised. It is difficult to recognize faults, if they are not clearly pointed out. When your shortfalls have been brought to your attention, it is then your responsibility to address these areas.
Credibility
By networking in a professional manner, we are able to build up a good reputation and enforce our commitment and dedication to using good business ethics.
Maintain a professional brand image
Use a networking opportunity to promote your brand image. All material handed out should be professional, smart, informative and provide educational content about your business, as well as provide industry updates or news that would be of interest to a potential customer.
Networking motivates, inspires and stimulates
Networking inspires us to go out and meet new people, open new doors, gain new experiences and generate new ideas. It is therefore important who you choose to network with. They do not have to be within your industry to benefit your organisation in positive way.
Networking only has one purpose, promoting business activity between two or more parties, for the benefit of both. At Just ask! we have therefore combined all these factors to come up with a structured, focussed method of doing business.
Contact Fabio Ungaretti directly on (083) 380 0546 or Lauren Henderson on (011) 465 0508 for more information on joining or starting up your own network!
