Virtual Assistant Marketing Tip of the Week: Stop Networking and Start Connecting

It’s a sad fact that most business owners are NOT great networkers. I’ve seen this repeatedly. At any given networking event, the “networkers” run around shaking hands, swapping business cards and “working” the room. At the end of the event, they end up with a pile of business cards, a fuzzy memory of who they talked to, and no business leads. What a waste of time!

As a Virtual Assistant, you have a unique opportunity to elevate our industry, set yourself apart AND generate new leads by CONNECTING instead of networking. When you go to a networking event, aim to have a real conversation with just five people. No more. When you approach these people, be friendly, open and polite. Show that you are genuinely interested in them, their business, their goals, what they need help with. Ask questions and let them talk about themselves. If you know someone (a graphic designer, landscaper, painter, anyone!) who can help make their lives easier, tell them you call and/or email them the next day with the information. (You have to make sure you actually to do it!) Be yourself and strive to serve others. This is how you build a solid reputation and a successful business.

Remember, people buy from those they know, like and trust. Work to serve others, to be a resource, to be a connector, not a networker. You’ll be amazed at the results!