The Business Exchange Bath & Somerset Issue 7: Spring 2018 | Page 33

HOW TO BECOME A NETWORKING PRO IF YOUR BIGGEST BARRIER IS YOU- THEN CHANGE YOUR MINDSET I arrived in the South West in June 2014 – I had no network and knew no one. I was starting a new business. Now four years later I have a healthy local network, a great business and I have made some good friends. I thought it would be easy but it wasn’t! Why? It was me. I had to take a long look at me, my beliefs, my fears, my brand. I had to start again after 30 successful years. I was my biggest barrier. So, what did I do? 1. Find your tribe. I found all the fantastic business magazines (this was one of them). I read the local newspapers and identified the key businesses, the key decision makers, the people who were making a difference in the South West. So, who are they? Who do you know already? Who do you want to connect with? Research! Don’t try to meet everyone at every event – it’s a big mistake. Get clever on where you spend your time. 2. Make the right approach. Be interesting and be interested! Build the rapport. It’s not all about you! The less you speak the more you will hear. Ask about them- be curious. Find out about their needs – are they Latent (they are not aware), Direct (they tell you) or Assumed (you think you know them). Make them feel special. Show you care. Give back. Help them. 3. Have the right mindset. I had to battle with myself, my fears and insecurities. I told myself “I am OK, I can do this, I know my business, I have huge experience and I only want to meet great people.” I had to close down my negative ‘self talk’. 4. Follow up and look after your contacts. Give back, help them and never ever give up. We cannot survive in a bubble, so networking is why we need to continually build and maintain our networks. You are OK – You can do it! Nicola McHale, CEO Mentor and Coach, Founder Vi International and Vistage Chair. For more info: www.viinternational.com [email protected] Mobile - 07887 616606 UK.linkedin.com/nicolamchale YOUR NEW PLACE TO MEET #HELLOBATH POP IN AND SAY HI This premier business hotel is nestled in the city centre just a 10 minute walk from Bath Spa train station. The contemporary design, modern technology and personalised service make your visit to this hotel stress- free. You’ll have everything you need on hand for that casual business meeting or informal catch-up in our lounge. E [email protected] apexhotels.co.uk @apexhotels THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2018 33