Those who know how to schmooze can easily corner the referrals market in their localities, while building long-lasting relationships that boost their business through some form of network. But networking is an art form, and making lasting connections can be tough.
Thankfully, the experts over at Keller Williams recently posted a few tips on how real estate professionals can how to do networking right.
1. Practice makes perfect
The first step is to work on it. Networking gets easier the more experience you have at it, and so it may even help if you can find someone to help you role play. Then you can practice introducing yourself using different techniques, and think of some solid ice breaker conversations ahead of time.
2. Don’t talk about business
At least not at first. The best way, Keller Williams advises, is to let people get to know you first, before discussing your business. After all, “people do business with people, not companies,” Keller Williams notes.
3. Set goals
5. Don’t forget to follow upYou need to have an idea of what you want to achieve when attending an event. How many contacts do you want to make? Set yourself a target and keep pushing to meet new people until you reach it.
4. Take notes
When people hand you their business cards you can use it to take notes or reminders about that person and what was said. After all, you don’t want to go forgetting what it is that made the two of you connect when you follow up with that person. Once you receive their card, jot down a few notes about whatever it was you discussed. This will trigger your memory when the time comes to contact that person again.
While you need to be careful not to be too over-aggressive by hitting someone up on social media 30 minutes after meeting them, don’t leave it too long either. Keller Williams recommends waiting 24 hours before following up to send someone a connection request.