Making Connections That Count: Creative Networking to Reach Your Ideal Client

9 Tactics to Use Now - You'll Love #6!

Hey there, fellow game-changers! Let’s talk about something super important in our professional lives: connecting with new people who could become amazing clients or customers. Now, I know what you might be thinking: "Ugh, networking. Isn't that just a lot of awkward small talk and forced smiles?" Well, it can be, but it doesn't have to be!

Think of reaching out to a prospective client not as a sales pitch, but as starting a conversation. It’s about finding genuine ways to connect, offer value, and build relationships. In today's world, we have so many tools at our fingertips beyond the traditional cold call (though sometimes, that still works!). So, let's ditch the pressure and explore some fresh and authentic ways to make those valuable connections.

Here are a few ideas to get those creative juices flowing:

1. The Thoughtful Email Introduction: Forget the generic "just checking in." Boy have I been guilty of this one.  I’m going to make a concerted effort to stop using that phrase.   Instead, do homework! Find something specific about their work, a recent achievement, or a shared interest. Send a brief, personalized email referencing that and subtly weave in how your services could be beneficial. Here’s an example of how you can do this: "I noticed your recent article on [topic] – fascinating insights! It reminded me of how we helped a similar company overcome [challenge] by implementing [your solution]."

2. Leverage LinkedIn Like a Pro: LinkedIn isn't just for job hunting. Engage with their content by leaving thoughtful comments on their posts, share their articles with your network (and tag them!), or send a personalized connection request explaining why you'd like to connect. Don't just hit "connect" – add a little note! Show your personality and more importantly, show your genuine interest.

3. Offer a Helping Hand (No Strings Attached): See someone in your network struggling with something you have expertise in? Offer a quick tip, a helpful resource, or a brief virtual coffee chat to share your insights. This "give first" mentality can build goodwill and open doors down the line. This skill will NEVER fail you.

4. Engage in Industry-Specific Online Communities: Facebook groups, online forums, and industry-specific platforms are goldmines for connecting with people in your field. Participate in discussions, answer questions, and offer valuable insights. Just remember to be genuine and avoid blatant self-promotion.

5. The "Warm" Introduction: Tap into your existing network! Let your trusted colleagues, friends, or past clients know the type of clients you're looking to connect with. A warm introduction from someone they already know and trust weight and is worth gold.

6. Host a Small, Informal Virtual Gathering: Instead of a large, intimidating webinar, consider hosting a small, informal virtual coffee break or a "lunch and learn" session on a topic relevant to your target audience. This allows for more personal interaction and the chance to answer questions directly.  Honestly, this one is my favorite.  It’s different, it feels more genuine, and this approach in making connections seems to carry so much more value. 

7. Create Valuable, Shareable Content: Whether it's a blog post, a short video with tips, or a helpful infographic, creating valuable content that addresses your ideal client's pain points can attract them to you. Make sure it's easy to share - send a helpful freebie such as The Monthly Breakthrough. You look smarter and you're helping the recipient grow too.

8. Attend Industry Events (Even Virtual Ones!): While in-person events might look different these days, virtual conferences and workshops still offer opportunities to connect with others in your industry. Actively participate in sessions, utilize virtual networking features, and follow up with people you connect with afterward. Why not start with creating your own virtual event with a few trusted contacts?  Ask each one to invite a trusted friend.  Pick a topic and watch the magic happen.  

9. Send a Personalized Video Message: Sometimes, a personal touch can go a long way. Consider sending a short, personalized video message (using platforms like Loom or BombBomb) to introduce yourself and briefly explain why you're reaching out. It’s more engaging than a standard email and shows you've put in extra effort. By the way, I did this when the pandemic hit.  I would record 1-minute quick videos for my clients, addressing them specifically in the video, just to let them know I was available to help them.  It helped keep that personal connection alive.  

   
   

Remember, the key is to be authentic, offer value, and focus on building genuine connections. It’s not about hitting a quota; it’s about creating relationships that can be mutually beneficial. So, go out there, be yourself, and start those conversations! You never know where they might lead.

Each month we publish The Monthly Breakthrough – a neat little idea, tip, trick, or exercise designed to help you be more successful, more productive, or simply more effective in your activities.  The Monthly Breakthrough is a quick read and, honestly, it is in and of itself a great tool to use to share with others when you need to reach out.  Give yourself (and someone who needs a little boost) the free gift of the Monthly Breakthrough.  Simply sign up here to receive it each month. 

Jodi Henson is a small business expert, entrepreneur, professor, author and founder of The Softer Side of Success (www.thesoftersideofsuccess.com).  She works with aspiring and existing small business owners to help them overcome challenges and create actionable plans that keep them moving forward toward their goals.  If you are looking to identify your next steps, contact her at jodi@thesoftersideofsuccess.com.