MARKETPLACE EVENTS

Networking In The 757 With Jake Maines

On the surface, having a successful trip to your local networking event would be to simply show up. Frankly, that’s not enough. To just show up once and expect the calls to start pouring in, you must be on the good stuff. To better improve your chances of the phone to ring (or notify you) you need to stay top of mind! This means choosing a few ways to promote yourself and staying consistent. Doing one thing is a great start, one has to do much more to be seen. Studies show that on a daily basis we consume over 5,000 different advertisements. To put that into easier to grip terms, it means you are competing against a whole heck of a lot more than your competitor across the street. To combat this, attend a handful of networking events each month, host an event of your own, distribute an email list to frequently share helpful information, and try to take on as many speaking engagements, podcast interviews, and magazine features as possible. Your go-to might be cold calling or door knocking, and I commend you for the hustle because that grind isn’t for the faint of heart. Whatever your cup of tea is, it requires consistency! A business built on referrals is the name of the game. Being known far and wide, where people seek you out. The way to make it happen is to position yourself as an expert, add value, and consistently stay top of mind! The results aren’t going to come immediately, but they will come, and the ride to get there isn’t so bad.

Pro Tip: If you feel like you’re seeing the same handful of people over and over again at the same events, consider skipping a month. If they miss you, you’re still top of mind! This isn’t an excuse to get inconsistent, so be strategic.

Check out some of my favorite networking events: Networking At The Narrows: Network in a relaxed outdoor, meaningful environment while bonding with like-minded business professionals. Events take place at The Narrows in First Landing State Park. Email gina@socialsipper.com to register.

Hampton Roads Networking Group: HRNG meets monthly on Thursdays for either a morning event or Happy Hour! The emphasis is on fun and relaxation, so the locations are chosen carefully and there’s usually something fun to do to break the ice. Email MarkellaMitcheison@gmail.com to register.

#DowntownNFKLadies: A meetup for professional ladies from different industries looking to engage, connect, and build relationships. Email hmorgan@ gotechark.com to register.

Networking Happy Hour: A low-key, no agenda, meet new people/catch up with old friends-type of event. Occurs the first Wednesday of every month. Register at networkinghh.com or by scanning the QR code below.

Cheers, Jake Maines