Is networking Notworking...

Many people recommend networking as a way of getting new business.

However with so many social networking sites out there, is it really a good use of time or a great way of wasting time with little tangible reward?

Interested in hearing your thoughts!

Sasha

Re : Is networking Notworking

It does work but takes time i found also it depends on what people are offering as well. i have never had any business from any of the recent networking events but the old first tuesday group that was different and it did bring in business
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Re : Is networking Notworking

Thanks for your thoughts - anyone else?

Re : Is networking Notworking

I think the effect of networking depends very much on your strategy, but also very much your business.

If you offer a service many small businesses will want - such as web design, or graphic design, then you will definitely pick up work through networking and word of mouth recommendations.

If you offer a service no small business is going to want - such as life coaching and the related fluffy fields - then no amount of networking is likely to lead directly to business. So it depends what game you are in and how focussed your networking is.

Tim

Re : Is networking Notworking

Sounds right to me Tim,

to get business through networking to businesses - you would have to be selling a product to businesses.

For example - I would be on twitter now if the product we provided was for non business. But as its a 'business diary system'... http://www.smartdiaryinfo.co.uk - I'm on a 'business forum'