Networking at Chamber Events
Joining your local Chamber of Commerce can be invaluable for your network marketing business. The key is to not just JOIN – but to be INVOLVED. Attend the monthly networking luncheons, and have your “30 second commercial” ready to roll off your tongue during introductions. This means when they go around the table to do introductions, you know EXACTLY what you are going to say. It is no longer than 30 seconds, and it’s to the point. In 30 seconds, you should be able to say who you are, what company you are with, what that company does, and how you would like to help those who are at the event today.
Be direct and compelling, but leave a little on the table that will make someone want to seek you out afterwards. End with a comment similar to “If you’re looking to [insert your company benefit here], feel free to see me after the lunch for more information”.
MANY times Chambers of Commerce groups are looking for speakers. Step up to the plate!!! Offer to give a short talk on “How to Make Money Alongside Your Regular Job” or “How to [Increase Your Skin’s Appearance] or [Improve Your Legal Portfolio] or [whatever other benefit you have to offer]”. Think of anything that would appeal to business people.
*** Bonus – pay particular attention to any Women’s Groups offshoots of the Chamber (Women In Business, Women In Leadership, etc). They often have their own luncheons, and are also looking for speakers. It doesn’t matter if you are a man or a woman – you can speak at these events!
After the lunch or main event, it’s time to do some additional networking. You cannot be a wallflower! With your business cards in hand, it’s time to walk up to people and introduce yourself. Here’s something that is VERY important to remember. People will remember you MORE if you ask questions about THEM. Plus you will be able to actually find more quality leads this way. Your conversations might go something like this:
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Introduce yourself – hand them a business card.
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Compliment them on some aspect – You enjoyed a comment they made, etc.
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Ask a question – How long have they been with their company? What made them choose their industry?
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Ask them if you can have one of their business cards.
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Finish your conversation, and go on to meet someone else.
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Make sure you make any notes of worth on their card.
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Follow up with any leads that you may want to email or call that you were able to connect with.
Remember, a Chamber event is what YOU make of it. Most people who complain about Chamber events not being “worth it” are the ones who are sitting back waiting for people to come to them!
Networking isn’t just about Chambers, there are other business groups, networking groups and/or speaking groups that you can join. Look in your local paper under the community calendar to find information on upcoming meetings. You can often go several times without having to join – and each one is an opportunity to get the word out about your product or services. Remember, people can’t use you unless they know about you!!
