Networking is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. Mastering the art of effective networking can open doors to endless opportunities.

BUT… MOST people don’t understand how to network properly.

MOST people want to start a business, come up with a product or service and then go on Linkedin and sell their “stuff.”

We all get those DMs in our inbox… “Buy my “stuff”… use my services, etc…

BUT, why would anybody do that?

Nobody knows us yet!

People do business with who they know, like and trust.

And, nobody knows, likes or trusts us yet.

We need to BUILD that trust and BUILD those relationships.

We need to build an audience of people who know, like and trust us… and who we know, like and trust.

When we go to a networking meeting or event, there may be 10 or 50 people there.

We may or may not sell our “stuff” to any of those 10 or 50 people, but the idea of networking is to setup 1-1 meetings outside of those meetings and build quality relationships.

THEN… we will have 10 or 50 people out selling FOR US!

Understand?

So, with that in mind, the biggest and best networking meeting ON THE PLANET is LinkedIn.

Everyday we go on LinkedIn to meet people and establish relationships.

BUT, most people just think of it as a job board or place to get lots of likes on our post and sell our “stuff.”

The idea is to meet people and setup 1-1 Zoom meetings and build relationships.

And, in these meetings, we don’t try to sell our “stuff” either… this is just about learning about people… who they are, what they do, where are they from, what sports do they like, where do they like to go on vacation, etc…

This is how we build meaningful relationships.

Going to a meeting and saying “buy my stuff” is the same as a spammy

DM.

So, now that we have these meetings where we learn about the people we’re meeting with, now we’ve established trust.

So, when those people need your services… or their friends or family members need your services, they’re going to say…

“Wait… I met with Dennis and I know, like and trust him… you should give him a call.”

THAT is how we do effective networking.

Quick story about a recent networking success story…

I had met a woman for a 1-1 meeting in Colorado about 7 years ago and we had coffee and spent about 6 months in the networking meeting together. She is a bookkeeper for a number of small businesses.

Time passed on, and a few months ago, 7 years later, she sent me a referral for a man who had grown his business to the point where he didn’t know how to go to the next level… so we talked and I signed him up for about $20,000 in services over the course of the last few months.

This came from a coffee meeting 7 years later after not have spoken in about 6 years.

What happened? We built a relationship and she knew, liked, and trusted me so when the opportunity came up and somebody she knew needed a business coach, I was the one she thought of.

So, with that in mind… if we don’t have a schedule full of client meetings, we should have a schedule full of networking meetings to build trust and foundational relationships.

This is how I’ve built my business and my audience here on Linkedin, and just in life in general.

People are always looking for the “shortcut” to building a successful business.

I urge you to start building foundational relationships… THAT is the shortcut.

Here are 10 steps to guide you on your journey to networking success:

1. Set Clear Objectives:

Clearly define your networking goals. Are you looking for new clients, job opportunities, or industry insights? Knowing your objectives will help you tailor your approach and measure your success.

2. Develop a Strong Elevator Pitch:

Craft a concise and compelling elevator pitch that introduces who you are, what you do, and what makes you unique. Make it memorable and adaptable to different situations.

3. Listen Actively:

Effective networking is a two-way street. Be genuinely interested in others. Listen actively to understand their needs, challenges, and goals. This builds rapport and sets the foundation for meaningful connections.

4. Be Genuine and Authentic:

Authenticity is key. Be yourself and let your personality shine through. Authentic connections are more likely to lead to lasting relationships and collaborations.

5. Utilize Online Platforms:

Leverage social media and professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Ensure your profiles are up-to-date, showcase your skills, and actively engage with relevant content and connections.

6. Attend Diverse Events:

Step out of your comfort zone and attend a variety of events, both online and offline. This exposes you to a diverse range of people and perspectives, enriching your network.

7. Follow Up Promptly:

After making a connection, follow up promptly. Send a personalized message expressing your pleasure in meeting them and suggesting a follow-up coffee chat or virtual meeting to continue the conversation.

8. Offer Value:

Networking is not just about taking; it’s about giving as well. Offer your expertise, share valuable resources, or make introductions that can benefit others. Building a reputation as a giver enhances your networking success.

9. Build and Maintain Relationships:

Networking is an ongoing process. Nurture your connections by staying in touch, offering support, and celebrating their successes. Building and maintaining relationships is at the heart of effective networking.

10. Attend Networking Training and Workshops:

Stay updated on networking best practices by attending workshops and training sessions. Learn new strategies, refine your skills, and stay informed about the latest trends in networking.

Remember, effective networking is about building genuine relationships that go beyond immediate gains. Approach each interaction with a mindset of curiosity, generosity, and a willingness to contribute to the success of others.

If you’re stuck and struggling to optimize and monetize LinkedIn and your business, there are a few ways I can help:

1. LinkedIn Masterclass Digital Course(HERE)

2. Life Mastery School by Dennis Berry (HERE)

3. One-on-one LinkedIn Business Coaching (HERE)

4. HOW Newsletter with 50,000+ subscribers  (HERE)

5. Solopreneur Operating System Digital Course (HERE)