A great way to increase the visibility of your practice and increase your clients is by networking. This can be carried out either in-person or online. Here, I’ll take some time to talk about ways to effectively carry out in-person networking at events.
One Way To Network Locally Is By Attending Events; The Right Ones!
You can look up events in your area that will help you reach your goals. Maybe you’re looking to meet other practice owners to connect with and possibly be a referral source for each other. Maybe you’re looking to meet people who may be a potential client referral source for you. For example, you may attend a networking event specifically for practice or business owners. Or an event that focuses on a topic, that potential clients or referral sources may attend. You can find out about events happening in your area via sites such at meetup, craigslist, or even through your local chamber of commerce.
Some Tips When Networking At A Local Event
- When you are networking, it’s important to dress the part depending on who you’re networking with. Whether you end up dressing in business or casual attire, the important part is that you are dressed in a way that you feel comfortable and confident.
- Before attending an event, you should have a plan of action; which may vary depending on the type of event you’re attending. It’s important to know your audience and how to appeal to them so that you can put your best foot forward in marketing your business.
- Oftentimes, the person who introduces themselves first is the one seen with more confidence. You can get the awkwardness out of the way and move towards making a potentially great connection!
- Introducing people to others can be a fantastic way to stand out at a networking event. In essence, you are being a resource to people, by connecting them with people who you think may be able to help them.
- When you’re at an event, remember to be and stay positive, focused and helpful. No matter what your thoughts are of the event in that moment, let your confidence shine through by smiling, interacting and looking at people with poise.
- Lastly, don’t forget about the follow-up. When you speak with people at an event and promise to give them information about something, follow up with them. A great way to follow up with people from the event is to maybe send them an article, a book title or information about things that you spoke about. This will show your enthusiasm and interest in your conversation, as well as help them to remember who you are and what you and your practice have to offer them or someone they know.
It Pays Off In The End
Networking will pay off so long as you choose the right events, know how to be yourself, let people know who you are and what your business does, as well as become a resource for everyone who you speak with at the event. They will remember you if they know that you may be an individual who can connect them to what they need; thereby building your list of connections, which can ultimately drive business to your practice!
Melissa J. McLean is a Licensed Counselor and Certified Professional Coach who is the owner of Morning Joy Counseling, a successful practice that primarily helps individuals dealing with anxiety and depression, as well as couples who want to rebuild or strengthen their relationships. In addition, Melissa helps other professionals move beyond the gap between visualizing their dreams and making it a reality by mapping out their next right steps towards having a successful and fulfilling business!
Download her FREE worksheet, “Tips to Increase Your Focus to Build Your Business” and learn 10 ways to get laser focused HERE!
