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Unique Ways to Network Other Than LinkedIn

Networking certainly seems different these days than it used to be due to ever changing technology and increase in safety procedures for events. This has led many of us to seek out ways in which we can connect with other business professionals using common networking sites. And although this is a good option, it isn’t always as fruitful as we might have hoped.

Leading entrepreneurs share their thoughts on how you can take advantage of making connections without only relying on networking sites.

Brian Porter of Dream Home Studio says that hosting in-person or virtual events is still something that is widely acceptable and the best way to make connections. “I love hosting events and lectures whenever and wherever I can. I meet so many people this way, whether they are already established business owners, or younger people looking to create their own start up. In-person and virtual events are simply superior when it comes to networking because you can expand your acquaintances pool drastically.”

Porter suggests also getting other speakers to attend to maximize your audience. “Hosting your own event gives you more control over who can attend. This means being able to bring in big names in the business community, or even having local influencers give a speech. When people see well-known people at these events, you can expect a larger group of people which means even more connections.”

Now that these types of events are back, other networking strategies are also starting to resurface. Happy hour for example is something that we are seeing more of again as employees become more comfortable with the idea of hanging out in more crowded places. Dr. Willy Portier of Concerty says “happy hour isn’t just about food and drinks with colleagues, it’s also about making important relationships among your team. When you get together outside of work, you have the ability to make stronger connections that can help you build upon your business relationships. Oftentimes other companies are out enjoying themselves too which means you have even more opportunities to work the room and get to know other people.”

“Bringing back happy hour is the perfect way to interact with entrepreneurs and can open many more doors for you, especially if you are looking for more employment opportunities.”

You need to think a little outside the box when it comes to expanding on your connections, and sometimes you just have to take matters into your own hands. Duncan Malcolm of Live Skippers suggests that making your own networking group can be beneficial. “Making your own networking group via platforms like Facebook can prove to be even better than joining one that is already established. When you lead a group like this, you can often invite people who you really want to connect with, and create a small community of people who have the same interests as you. This is especially helpful for those who are freelancers or who are a one-person operation. Connecting with other like-minded people can help you to get advice and assistance if ever needed. You can also connect virtually which allows you to meet people from all over the world.”

Networking is really a cool way to get to know so many people from different parts of the world. This allows you to inform yourself on new technologies and things happening outside of your own bubble that can prove to be helpful for your business. Another way in which you can increase your networking efforts is to focus on your personal brand.

“Your personal brand is just as important as your business brand,” suggests Jonathan Marshall of The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall. When you make a name for yourself, you want to be able to showcase it to the world because it helps to increase brand awareness. This isn’t just necessary for gaining new customers, but is also a helpful tactic if you’re trying to connect with other business owners.”

Marshall continues to say, “Creating a social media presence for your brand ensures that more people see you who might want to connect. When you share personal stories about you and your business, you often allow others to find a connection between you and them which can increase the chances of them reaching out.”

Something else to consider if you are looking to be able to network whenever, wherever is ensuring you have a digital business card with you wherever you go. Paper business cards become easily lost or misplaced by both you and the recipient, and they also don’t offer much other than your name and place of employment. A digital business card can show much more about yourself, and is a much easier way to ensure you always have a card with you that someone can add to their own phone.

TIME BUSINESS NEWS

TBN Editor

Time Business News Editor Team