Networking Insight

Key Takeways from a Good First Business Interaction

First impressions are extremely important in the business world. Your first encounter with someone will usually determine if a relationship will begin to develop. Below are key takeaways from a good first business interaction. Changes are that a relationship will continue if any of these happen.

- You exchange business cards - Usually business cards are only exchanged if you feel a connection and want to continue the discussion.

- Mention will do something - When getting to know people it is a good idea to find out what needs they have. If you say that you will assist a person with something, then chances are that you want to develop the relationship further. If the other person also commits to doing something, that further solidifies that a relationship is being developed. Of course, you both need to follow up and follow through for the relationship to continue.

- Want to make introductions - While finding out what a person needs, you may quickly think of some introductions that you can make. When you want to bring people in your network together, then you are building relationships. It is good to continually find ways to bring your network together.

- Feel a personal bond - After speaking with someone, you sometimes can tell right away that a bond has been formed. When this feeling happens, you should mostly likely pursue building that relationship.

- Have many people in common - When getting to know someone, you sometimes find out right away that you have people in common. If you both respect and know some of the same people, then chances are that you will like each enough to want to form a long lasting relationship.

What other key takeaways come to mind?

 

Relationships are Critical for Entrepreneurial Success

When building or growing a company, relationships are an important component for an entrepreneur's success. Leveraging existing relationships are a great way to find employees, customers, partners, investors, and advocates.

Those in your network generally want to see you succeed so usually assist how ever they can. Of course, it depends on how good your relationships are with certain people. That is why is important to nurture relationships over time so when you need the assistance, certain individuals in your network will be there for you.

When stating a company, entrepreneurs should lean heavily on their network to gain early traction with the initial building blocks of launching a company: contractors, employees, capital, co-founders, etc. Make sure to reach out to people who you think can assist you. Be strategic about who you ask and why. You should generally start with people who you have the strongest relationship with in your network. At the same time, find ways to assist them too. Hopefully, you have already provided value over time so when you have an ask they are there for you right away.

While growing a company, similar needs may exist but again be strategic on your asks. You may ask less people for assistance but you should know exactly who to contact. At the same time, you may need to build new relationships to generate sales or raise capital. You can leverage your existing network to ask for introductions. LinkedIn is another great business tool to ask for introductions.

Regardless of what stage your company is in, you shouldn't have to do every thing alone. Leverage your relationships to assist you along the way. Nurture your relationships so you can build them for the long term. One of your biggest assets is your network. Keep it strong and diverse.