What do you do if you want to build a strong network of business contacts as an entrepreneur?

To build a strong network of business contacts as an entrepreneur, I would start by identifying my goals and the type of contacts I want to connect with. I would then leverage various networking opportunities such as industry events, conferences, seminars, and trade shows to meet new people and expand my network. I would also use online platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in my industry and join relevant groups and forums to engage with like-minded individuals. Building genuine relationships by offering value, being a good listener, and following up regularly would be essential. Lastly, I would maintain my network by staying in touch and offering support when needed.

It is true to say "Your network is your net worth". An entrepreneur should have a clear vision of the problem that his product or service is to solve, as well as its scalability, & sustainability. Define the persona of his potential clients & stakeholders. Connect on opportunities to meet them using any platform as a medium (Events, Networks, Clubs, Community, etc). Communicate & engage with them frequently through Offline or Online in a professional context. Be the first to extend support, provide value, & assist in building trust. Engage in authentic pep talks to discuss insights, experience, & mentoring opportunities. This shall open avenues for more directions, systems, & process ideas towards organising your entrepreneurial journey.

Networking events provide valuable opportunities to meet new people and expand your professional circle. Look for industry conferences, seminars, workshops, and local networking events and even local social events, where you can connect with like-minded professionals. Be proactive in introducing yourself, engaging in conversations, and exchanging contact information. Authenticity and genuineness are key in building meaningful connections. I have a keen ability to discern individuals genuinely interested in meaningful dialogue from those seeking only to boost their egos.

Networking is not just about what you can gain; it's also about what you can offer. Look for opportunities to provide value to others by sharing your expertise, offering assistance/making introductions. Building relationships based on mutual trust & reciprocity is essential for long-term networking success. After making initial connections, be sure to follow up promptly to nurture your relationships. Send personalized follow-up emails/LinkedIn messages, schedule coffee meetings/virtual calls, & stay in touch regularly to maintain & strengthen your connections. Show genuine interest in your contacts & find ways to continue adding value to your relationship over time. Be genuine in your interactions & listen actively.

Being a person of value will draw you to a lot of opportunities including people of like minds who will in turn reciprocate the value you offer and exchange it for something meaningful which include good, cordial and fruitful relationships. Networking by attending industry events, parties, joining elite clubs, professional bodies relevant to you will improve and help build trust and rapport among your business associates which brings goodwill including good and positive brand image for more connections, success and upward trajectory in work, business and life in general. Ensure to follow up with new contacts after meeting them and let them know you cherish their relationship and would like they provide feedback for a better experience.

Networking is always a two-way street. Apart from attending events & leveraging LinkedIn, I found these helpful. - Join a targeted professional group. Oftentimes, it's the best learning ground to gain insights, trends & learn regulatory changes from people in your field. Learn from others' experiences so it lowers down your opportunity costs. - Establish authority via speaking engagements. Getting your voice and face out there helps in building your brand. You're not just connecting with the audience, and at the same time, interact with other speakers who often come with their own extensive networks. Of course, it's never about yourself. Aim to give value, be genuine and plan your strategy beforehand. Always give more than you take!

Building a strong network takes time & effort, so don't get discouraged by setbacks/rejections. Stay persistent in your efforts & continue to expand your network over time. Be patient as relationships develop & opportunities emerge. It is a long-term investment in your professional growth & success, an ongoing process that requires continuous learning & adaptation. Stay informed about industry trends, refine your networking strategies based on feedback & experience, be open to trying new approaches. Keep learning from your interactions, adjust your approach as needed to maximize your networking effectiveness. Avoid coming across as overly transactional/self-promotional. Focus on building genuine connections based on trust & mutual respect.

Networking is a key building block of an entrepreneurial journey. Your network is considered as your social currency, thus it is valuable to build a trusted and a diverse network. This is easier said than done. One of the areas you can focus on are your own limiting beliefs. What are the factors that come in your way and act as a roadblock when you think of networking? Some common beliefs could be: 1. I am not good in networking and I lack the skills. 2. I feel anxious in social situations. 3. I am comfortable with people who are like me. 4. I think others are not interested in collaborating. 5. Only extroverts are good with networking. Know your biases and limiting beliefs, & start challenging them to grow your networking skills.