How to Adapt Your Approach to Networking as Your Business Grows
Starting a new business often involves investing significant time in networking to build relationships. However, as your company grows, you might find yourself doing less formal networking while focusing on maintaining relationships with customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders.
Adapting Your Elevator Pitch
It’s probably been a while since anyone asked, “What do you do?” But if they do, how do you reply? The business has grown, your role has changed, and the rehearsed spiel from years ago doesn’t apply anymore. You are more likely to engage with different people from the old networking days, those who operate on a similar level to yourself. Therefore, you need to focus on sharing the bigger picture of the business from a leadership perspective. What lasting impression do you want to leave with your new acquaintance?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Without giving this some thought and practice, you could find yourself making some of the basic mistakes you learned to avoid in the early days. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Talking Too Much: Keep your pitch concise and to the point. Overloading your listener with information can be overwhelming and make it harder for them to remember your key points.
- Lack of Clarity: Ensure your value proposition is clear and easy to understand. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that might confuse your audience.
- No Clear Structure: A well-structured pitch helps your listener follow along and remember your message.
- Focusing Too Much on Yourself: While it’s important to introduce yourself, the focus should be on how you can help the listener or solve their problem.
- Being Too Vague: Be specific about what you do and what your company offers. Vague statements can leave your listener confused and uninterested.
Crafting a Memorable Elevator Pitch
Remember to show passion and enthusiasm for what you do and always end with a clear call to action, whether it’s scheduling a meeting, exchanging contact information, or inviting them to learn more, maybe a site visit. Avoid these common mistakes, stay in the game, and be sure to create a more effective and memorable elevator pitch.
Do you need help crafting a new elevator pitch? Contact me at kate@engagewithbusiness.co.uk
