Build Successful Connections with these Key Tips...

No matter what industry you’re in, building connections is vital to your business. The Internet has removed any excuses as to why you shouldn’t be making a TON of business connections on a daily basis. In order to succeed you will need the help of others. Get empowered with these seven tips, and start connecting now!

1. Provide Value First: People want to know what’s in it for them. What better way to connect with someone than to give them something upfront. You don’t have to “give away the farm” but share a tool or resource which helped you in the past, something that they will find value in as well. Think, what can I offer this person which will help them in THEIR business? In turn, they will want to help with yours.

2. Get out of your Comfort Zone: Don’t be afraid to try new things when attempting to connect with new business prospects. You have to be willing to take risks in order to get results. You need to step outside your comfort zone and do something you haven’t done in the past. After all, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting a different result.

3. Be Genuine: There are hundreds of ways to find information online. People use blogs, websites, email and social media to promote themselves. Take advantage of these public resources and get to know the person you’re contacting. It only takes a moment to visit their website or review their profile. This way, when you contact them, mention something you truly found interesting. For example, say “Hi Greg! I recently came across your site Example.com I loved your article on “the perfect example.” Take time to show interest in them first (instead of talking about yourself), this will not only build immediate respect, but show that you are genuinely interested in what they do.

4. Don’t be Intimidated: Be bold when you re choosing your target prospects. Most people go for the easy target because they are intimated by status or success. If the people you need to reach are successful or powerful people, remember they are human just like you. Stop contemplating and just reach out to them. The worst thing that can happen is they can respond with ‘not interested.’ But if you never ask, you’ll never know.

5. Sharing is Caring: Sharing is caring; it’s not just a child’s phrase anymore. Sharing is now easier than ever! We share videos, links, articles, books, pdfs, you name it, you can share it. Each time you share you are opening a door which leads back to you and your business. If others like it they will share it too, making each share an opportunity to get your name out there. So don’t be greedy…if you like it, share it!

6. Use the Right Platforms: There are so many online platforms to choose from nowadays, it can get overwhelming. What you need to remember is that each platform is tailored for specific audiences who share a similar purpose or interests. Think about your target market and find out which platforms they are on. For example: If someone wants to share a DIY project, they use pinterest. If they are looking for a job, they visit linkedin. Entrepreneurs looking for business opportunities use NEURS.com, or to share real time updates, some use twitter. Find out exactly who you’re looking to connect with and use a platform which caters to those individuals.

7. Start with People you Know: Family and friends can often provide the best head start. They can break the ice and introduce you to new friends and prospects. They can even get you in the door with an existing network of people. The truth is “it’s not who you know, it’s who you know, knows.”

When you’re an entrepreneur, every person you meet is an opportunity to build a new connection. Even if they may not directly benefit from your business, you never know who they can connect you with. Being prepared is half the victory.