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Business networking is essential for career success. Having a strong circle of professional contacts can provide insight into industry expertise and help grow a brand. However, to truly reap the rewards of your networking efforts, you need to put less focus on collecting business cards and spend more time creating authentic and mutually beneficial relationships. Achieving your goals is as much about developing a valuable network as it is hard work. Here are a few tips for building meaningful connections that last.

How to Create Intentional Professional Relationships 

1. Commit to Following Up 

Attending business networking events allows you to be immersed in an environment with like-minded individuals who share the same interests and objectives. Meeting people at these gatherings is ideal for expanding your contact list. 

Engage in conversation, ask questions, and listen to what others have to say. Follow up after a day or two with an email or phone call. While it sounds simple, people often miss an opportunity to form a great connection because they fail to take the next step after the initial meeting.

2. Show Genuine Interest 

business networking

Many professionals find it difficult to evolve in their work relationships because they don’t take the time to get to know their contacts. Rather than introducing your products or services right away and asking for help, show a genuine interest in who you’re talking to. Find out what they do and what they care about. This will build a solid foundation of trust and respect for one another, which is more likely to yield the results you’re looking for than a relationship that appears to be only transactional. 

3. Use Social Media Effectively  

Social media plays an important role in many aspects of the corporate world, including business networking. It’s common for the connections you make to search various platforms for more information on your personal and professional life. Keep all these profiles updated and complete, and engage with contacts by sharing content that can offer them value. When you send requests to connect on social media, personalize the message with details relevant to previous conversations.

 

If you’re ready to invest in deeper connections with other professionals, consider joining the Greater North County Chamber of Commerce. This organization offers fun and effective business networking opportunities for entrepreneurs located in Florissant, MO, and the surrounding area. For more than 60 years, this nonprofit organization has remained committed to helping the local economy flourish and improving the community’s quality of life. Call (314) 831-3500 for more information on becoming a member, or visit the website to learn more about what they do.

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