Building a network is one of the most important things that you can do as a businessman. In Business Tribes, Tony Park explains just how crucial it is for modern businessmen to have a dedicated network. Tony Park is an Australian entrepreneur and speaker. He created the Business Tribes program to help businessmen. He is the Head Business Gardener and wrote Business Tribes. He even wrote a book called Ignite Your Life. He believes that the success of a business relies on a strong network. Here are some tips on how to build one.
- Understand the different purposes of networking
First of all, you must understand the purposes of networking. There are mainly two: finding a job or developing a clientele for your business. To be able to use your network effectively, you must also define your current objective in a clear way: find a supplier, a partner, or grow your clientele?
It must also be understood that the network operates over the long term. This does not mean that you will only see the results of this networking in the long term; there will always be short-term effects. But, the real benefits of your network will become apparent in the long run. Importantly, you must also understand that the purposes of networking change over time. Once you reach your first goal, you shouldn’t just disband the network. Continue talking to people so that your network continues to grow.
- Find your way of networking
The network is a great toolbox. There are really different ways to network. You need to find the best way to network according to your own choices. For example, some people prefer talking to others online. On the other hand, there are some who prefer talking face to face with each other. You need to create a system that you feel most comfortable with.
- Animate your network
You must not let your network die. You should constantly keep in touch with the individuals in the network. Even if you have nothing relevant to talk about based on the purpose of the network, you should still stay in touch with them. Provide relevant news or information to your customers so that you can keep in touch with them.
- Be organized and methodical
We do not realize the number of contacts we have, so it’s important that you remain organized. You have to keep your contact list up to date, without trying to do anything too complicated (name, surname, company, e-mail address). You just have to do it regularly. But, networking is a bit like sport: if you want to do it too much at once, you get lost. Keeping up to date with your contact list means you should talk to them time and again so that you know what’s going on.
- Understand that social networks are tools for networking
Professional social networks are facilitators, tools for networking and must not be ignored. Today, even without a paying account, a lot of information is available. It is possible to make useful connections, but you have to put them to use. Tony Park believes that leveraging the power of social media could be vital for the growth of your company. He talks in detail about networking in his book called Business Tribes.
