The playbook for business networking

Take Safaricom PLC, for example. They're a big shot in Kenya's telecommunications scene, and they owe a big chunk of their success to their strong ties with Vodafone Group PLC. Thanks to their relationship, they've become the largest telecommunications provider in Kenya and even launched M-Pesa, one of the fastest-growing mobile banking services in Africa. Currently, their partnership is worth billions of dollars. Impressive, right?

But enough about them. Let's focus on you and how you can grow your venture, land your next big deal, and make valuable business contacts through networking.

So, what does a networker actually do? I'm sure you've got a few ideas already. But who's a good networker, you ask? Well, there's no magic formula to determine that, but one thing's for sure: a good networker is an intentional communicator who knows how to build and maintain long-term relationships based on trust.

To succeed at networking, you need a plan. Get yourself organized, commit to it, learn some networking skills, and put that plan into action. Start by asking yourself a few questions: What do you want to achieve with networking? Who are the people or organizations you need to connect with? How many leads or prospects do you want? Where do your potential customers and prospects go to network? Are there any business organizations or associations that could benefit your business? And how can you build your personal and business brand to attract those prospects?

Once you have those questions answered, create a networking plan. List your top five customers, your targeted prime prospects, and your targeted organizations based on your mode of business. Set a specific time frame, like two years, three years, or five years, depending on what's realistic for you. Then, set goals for each organization, determine how much time you'll dedicate to each one, and decide what kind of results you expect.

Now that you have a plan in place, it's time to get out there and make it happen. Networking is all about being active and putting yourself in the right places. Attend industry events where your prospects hang out, whether they're virtual or in person. Join social groups and take advantage of professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Stay informed about your industry and find events that can benefit your business.

When you attend these events, make it a goal to meet at least five new people each time. Don't stick to familiar faces. Be bold and approach those you don't know. Even in virtual events, you can reach out to people who made great vital contributions during the event or send a message to the speakers to express your appreciation for their presentations. Or how else will you meet the people you need to grow your business?

For physical interactions, don't forget your business cards - their essence is never outdated. You never know when you'll meet a key contact. And for virtual meetings where you won't be exchanging physical cards, make sure you have a good elevator pitch ready to introduce yourself and your business to prospective clients.

Stay focused on your networking goals and get involved. Your goals might change from meeting to meeting, but keep your mind on the prize. Show up as a leader, not just someone warming a chair or staying muted in virtual meetings. Get engaged in every aspect of communication that will let your presence and expertise shine.

Here's a pro tip for today: never underestimate the power of keeping in touch with previous clients. They can be a goldmine for future projects and referrals. So, make a good impression, stay in contact, and nurture those relationships. It'll pay off big time.

Remember, networking is a two-way street. Don't expect others to shower you with referrals and business if you're not willing to do the same. Follow up with your contacts, stay in touch, and share information or leads that might benefit them. Trust me, your thoughtfulness will come back to you tenfold. After all, the business gurus would often say "It’s not what you know or do, it’s who you know."

Did you miss last week’s newsletter where we delved into 8 Forbes Coaches' profit and revenue-boosting tips? Check it out here: Peek into 8 Forbes Coaches' Profit-Boosting Tips

Outerverse

What else is happening around the world?

• Google agrees to invest up to $2 billion in OpenAI rival Anthropic

• Microsoft’s AI boost helped cloud business outpace rivals Amazon and Google in latest quarter

• Chipmaker Intel soars on signs of PC market recovery

• Apple is set to host its second product event of the season, a month after introducing its new iPhone 15 lineup

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Here are our Recs for the week!

🍔 Eat: Avena sativa
🛍️ Buy: 128GB OTG 3 In 1 Usb Flash Drive Type C with 32% discount
🍿 See: The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
🎧 Listen: Common Person by Burna Boy
📖 Read: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
🏆 Win: Free Ticket to Africa Startup Festival

Job Openings

What are people hiring for now?

• Fortinet - Regional Account Manager

• Softzenith - Business Analyst

• Lendsqr - Product Manager

• Agusto&Co. - Financial Analyst

• High Caliber Nigeria Limited - Delivery Driver (Korope)

Oh, before you go friend …

At VisualHQ, we're not just about providing creative services like UX, brand identity, design, development, and marketing. Our goal is to be your steadfast companion on the journey of startup success. That's why we've crafted The Beam, our weekly newsletter.

Each week, we curate a selection of the most relevant and insightful topics, interviews, and case studies from industry experts and thought leaders. Our team scours the in-depth scenes of business trends, marketing strategies, technological advancements, and emerging markets to bring you the most valuable information to fuel your success. Together, let's ignite your ideas and shine a spotlight on the endless possibilities that lie ahead. Let’s Collaborate!