We’ve all heard that networking should be an integral part of our
total marketing plan but what is networking? And is it the same
for off-line marketing as it is for on-line marketing? The answer
to both questions is yes. Many Internet marketers venture off
into classified ads, opt-in mailing lists, and postings of all
sorts. Many times the traditional networking ways of off-line
marketing are forgotten. So, what is networking in the
traditional marketing sense, (NOT networking marketing or MLM
programs)?
Simply stated, networking is contact to establish relationships
that can lead to business. Sometimes the path to business is
direct; other times it is indirect such as referrals. The person
you know knows someone else who needs your products/services.
Networking means making these contacts and building on them by
talking with people about what you do and who you are. It also
is in turn, listening to them to see how you might assist them in
what they do.
These contacts, the people you need to know or the people that
can help you, might be right under your nose. To help build that
list, answer the following:
1. Who has taken an interest in you lately or in the past?
2. Who have you been good friends with?
3. Who do you always talk business with when you get together?
4. Who has helped you or offered encouragement or advice in your
business.
5. Who do you go to when you have a challenge or particular need?
6. Who comes to you for help?
7. Who do you idolize?
This list could go on and on but the general notion is we are
already networking, networking is all around us and the people to
build our network with are with us everyday.
The following list will detail at least 50 people that you can
add to your network right now. This list is by no means
exhaustive. It is suggested that you choose 1 or 2 people for a
group of these and start making more of an attempt to put
yourself in front of them. You will then determine whom you can
help and who can help you.
50 Who do You Know – 50
1. Neighbors
2. Country Clubs
3. Fraternity Members
4. Electronic Contacts
5. Family Members
6. Former Employer
7. Former Customer
8. Current Customer
9. Former Educator
10. Scoutmaster
11. Attorney
12. Banker
13. Former Employees
14. Delivery Driver
15. Bartender
16. Politicians
17. Hobby Clubs
18. Real Estate Brokers
19. Travel Agent
20. Executive Recruiters
21. Postal Workers
22. Coffee Shop/ Bakers
23. Firefighter
24. Golfing Buddies
25. Law Enforcers
26. Friends
27. Celebrities
28. Social Organization Members
29. Doctors
30. Vets
31. Parents of Child’s Schoolmates
32. PR contacts
33. Auto Dealers/Service
34. Best Friend
35. Leads Clubs
36. Store Owners
37. Chamber of Commerce Members
38. Printer
39. Service Organization Members
40. Dry Cleaners
41. City/County Government
42. Health Clubs
43. Church Members
44. Hotel Concierge
45. Trade Organization
46. Kids Sports Coach
47. Investment Clubs
48. Accountant
49. Alumni Clubs
50. Teammates Parents
Knowing people who already believe in you and your company,
people who will recommend you, refer to you and open doors for
you can make the difference between marginal performance and
great success.
About the Author
Alfred J. Lautenslager is an award winning marketing/PR
consultant, direct mail promotion specialist and entrepreneur.
His businesses have helped hundreds succeed in their own
businesses. He can be reached through the websites at
http://www.prforprofits.com and http://www.marketforprofits.com