How should you decide where to network?

Deciding where and how to network is not always an easy task, especially in times when marketing and sales budgets are tight. Here are some do's and do not's for networking:

Do -

1. Evaluate networking groups before you decide to invest your marketing dollars and join. Some groups allow you to go several times before they ask for a formal commitment, while others just charge a higher fee for meetings. Attend a couple of meetings to see if the organization is a good fit for your business.
2. Once you join, get involved. Okay, this is probably easier said than done when it comes to busy schedules, but the best way to meet people and build those relationships is to get involved and join a committee.
3. Attend meetings. I've found a lot of business owners will join a group and then never attend meetings. If you can't make the time commitment, don't waste your marketing dollars.
4. Create a plan before you attend a networking event. Go to any networking event with a plan on who you would like to meet and then just be yourself and have fun.
5. Select organizations that would have membership from companies that are your target market. For example, if you are an environmental consulting firm, don't spend a lot of your networking dollars on joining environmental consulting organizations (it's important to keep up on industry trends though so don't completely overlook your industry groups). Instead, attend networking meetings for commercial realtors or bankers.
6. Be creative. I love to play golf and I know a lot of other business owners who do too. It's a great way to build relationships and network.
   
7. Follow-up with the people you meet. You can use Outlook or any other CRM Software like ACT! to keep track of prospects and build relationships.

Do Not -

Spend all your time at a networking event hawking others and handing out your business cards with the sole idea of getting business. Instead, use the time to build relationships and listen to others.