How to make the most of networking opportunities

Networking is an efficient way to grow your business if you are making the right contacts. Networking experts, Avanti, share their tips on how to seek out the opportunities at networking events.

Networking takes time out of your working day, so you need to make it count.  Here are few tips of how to network with the right people and not simply the first person you bump into while pouring a coffee.

Ask the organiser

The event organiser will often be able to tell you who is attending. The Avanti team provides all members and visitors with a list of attendees so you can plan for the meeting and the contacts that you would like to make.

But how do you know who is just there for the lunch and who might be a valuable contact for you and your business – or even be a potential client? Here are some tips for spotting good people to network with:

Seek out networkers who…

• are looking to build useful relationships over time
• are willing to help or advise
• can demonstrate their expertise.

Things to watch out for –

• people who lack credibility
• those who ask for your advice a little too often
• people focused solely on their own agenda

Making your contacts work
Networking works because it is co-operative. You are part of a conversation where you can both bring something to the table. By engaging with each other, and sharing contact details, you are saying that, if you can help, you will be on the end of the phone or email.

So, if you are looking for a mutually supportive network where you can build the relationships that will grow your business through valuable contributions why not give Avanti a try?

We are especially keen to fill the following categories –

Ipswich Ladies – Human Resources, Photographer

Ipswich Mixed – Travel Agent, Banking

Bury St Edmunds- Web developer, Therapist

Contact [email protected] for details of upcoming events, We are always happy to welcome new visitors and members subject to category availability.