Writing, Self-Publishing, Book Marketing

A Little (BIG) Thing Called Networking

October 27, 2009 at 12:47 pm mbutler22 Leave a comment

It’s who you know, right? And maybe even more important, it’s who knows You. Networking means introducing yourself to anyone and everyone that may have even the slightest impact on the growth of your profession — the viral spreading of your name and work, creating a positive reputation as an author.

A constant focus on expanding your network of contacts can vary from an exchange of information at a professional conference to the person on the plane who has expressed an interest in reading. It is about obtaining and sharing information that can help you in your day-to-day business as well as prospective future. Networking is an essential tool for uncovering new opportunities and is about passing it on — helping others as they try to get ahead.

There are opportunities to network anywhere and everywhere. Walking by a bookstore? Stop in and introduce yourself to those working directly with your potential customers. Engage yourself in industry events. Your contacts should range from highly professional to more personal.

Follow these tips to prepare and improve your networking skills:

1. Always carry your business cards. Be prepared to network at all times; you never know who you might meet.
2. Introduce yourself. Practice introducing yourself and describing who you are and what you do. Repeat the other person’s name, shake hands, make eye contact, and wear a name tag when appropriate. You want others to ask you questions and you want to be remembered.
3. Plan your pitch. Practice your “elevator speech” so that you can persuasively pitch your book and yourself in less than 30 seconds.
4. Be Direct. Are you looking for a mentor or a referral? Clearly communicate what you would like and how the assistance would benefit you. Ask for 20 minutes of time or a brief lunch.
5. Conversation starters. Be up-to-date on current events and industry news. Know your industry, and have ideas broader than the expected.
6. Have a question ready. Approach with a question that expresses interest in the persons with whom you are speaking. Being interested in them will make them interested in you.
7. Keep notes. When someone gives you a business card, write on the back of the cards where you met, topics of conversation, possible opportunities and little tidbits specific to that person for a personal touch.
8. Leave on a high note. As the conversation begins to dwindle down, excuse yourself. You do not want the final impression to be awkward. Know when to break from a conversation.
9. Rate yourself. Be honest. How do you think you did? Were you prepared? How was the conversation? Is there a possible benefit or opportunity?
10. Don’t push. Listen for opportunities in which you may offer insight. Stay away from bragging and simply participate in conversation while still offering memorable information about you that may be of interest to your new contact.
11. Follow through. Keep in touch with your new contacts. Send a “nice to meet you … enjoyed … ” e-mail. E-mail or call time to time just to touch base. Send relevant articles or anything specifically related or of interest to the contact.
12. Build relationships. Strive to form relationships with your contacts — they are more beneficial for both parties and last longer.

Successful networking takes planning and practice. As a strong contributor to your overall achievements, invest in yourself and your profession by getting to know the people involved in your industry. Your active involvement will heighten your own enthusiasm and benefit your work, while creating a feeling of ease at any setting. So begin networking, make friends, open opportunity, and build your writing career. 

- Melissa

Entry filed under: Marketing. Tags: networking, Self-Publishing, Writing.