The best way to do this is by attending networking events. These are events where other like-minded individuals who seek new acquaintances (who may most possibly be their new set of loyal clients) are all present. You are all aware of each person's objective, thus - any form of customer search is understandable and acceptable.
But you cannot blindly attend these events, there are 3 basic things you must make sure you do, so that your attendance will bear the most fruit.
Establish an objective before you go to the event. What exactly do you want to accomplish? Is it to meet people? To exchange ideas? To get new updates concerning the industry? Have a mental outline in your mind of what you must do - but don't memorize - just internalize your pitches and take them to heart. People will see through a robotic networker, so be natural. If you want to get 3 clients, then be on the prowl. Introduce yourself, ask them what they do, then slowly segue into what you do.
One tip though - this is a networking event, not a sales event. It is not a business fair where you convince clients to buy. So please don't hard-sell - just introduce you business and expound on how your company can help solve some of their concerns. Don't stand beside the water cooler and pitch to anyone who comes near. Don't stuff your face full of free donuts or pastries. Remember you objective and accomplish it - no matter how much your face hurts from all the smiling and your hands sweating from all the hand-shaking.
Be sure to have your business cards ready. Take note - business cards - NOT FLYERS! You are not selling or convincing anyone to buy… you are enticing people to be your "friend" - a friend who can help them solve their problems. When you find someone who can potentially be a client, hand over a business card - it's the most professional thing to do. Remember, if they are interested, they will call or visit. If they are not - they may set aside your card for a future need. Just make sure you get that business card into their hand or pocket, because that's equivalent to having one of their feet inside your store already. And move around - don't bug just one person.
The focus of a networking event is to help you meet as many people as possible. Don't bug the lone person whom you victimized and turn him off in the process. Do that and your entire trip is wasted.
Attend the right networking event. Do not be an event-hopper - be discriminating with your choice of events. Attend those that cater to your target market or niche. Avoid meetings that give you no leads. And avoid going to events that you do not enjoy. You do not have to endure hours of torture just to get your business card in the proper hands. When you don't like what you're doing, it completely shows on your face, no matter how much you avoid it. Choose your trips - go for quality of established associations, not quantity. This is the main factor that separates the savvy networker from the neophyte.
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Michael Griffiths is the CEO and Founder of My Small Business Marketing Guru. Helping small business owners generate more leads, clients and increase profits with relationship based marketing strategies. We invite you to get your free black mask marketing resources to help you business grow today, when you visit http://www.mysmallbusinessmarketingguru.com.au
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