Marketing for business-to-business companies and professionals is slightly different from typical business-to-consumer marketing. It's a little more professional and you are expected to be more knowledgeable about your industry. But the core values and processes that make a successful networker are still in play. If you are in the B2B space, then take a moment to learn these strategies for networking success--and understand what you need to avoid.
Do Network Everyday
It is important to network every day so it becomes a natural part of your busy schedule. Networking doesn't have to take hours. Just sending a quick email to someone or sending out brochures to remind them your are still around can mean the difference between landing a contract and not. Spreading the word about
your business each and every day and growing your network organically will eventually pay off down the road. Plus, it makes the task much easier to handle if you do it in small steps daily, rather than all at once.
Don't Over Network
In the B2B space, professionals are bombarded with sales calls, emails and texts all day long. So, once you start to network with someone, don't overdo it. If you are networking every day, you don't want to send the same email to the same person or businesses. Spread the emails around, change the subject lines and keep it fresh.
Do Something New
Be new and unique when you network. Try something different that will grab attention. The key to good networking is to be original and stand out so the business will remember you. If your email or social media post looks common or normal, it will simply fade into the background. So, be a little bold and
people will remember you.
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Don't Be Unprofessional
Standing out is good, but looking unprofessional is not good. Always maintain a proper professional demeanor in your emails and
marketing materials. It's the best way to send the right message to a B2B professional. You have to sell the idea that you truly are an expert in your field and competent enough to earn their business.
Do Social Media Posts
Today, everyone and their brother is on
social media. So, be there too. If your competition is on Facebook, then you need to get on Facebook also. Your business should be front and center in everyone's mind. If you are holding an event, make sure to post the event online. Then reach out to the professionals who should attend this event and the professionals who know people who should attend. Word can travel much faster and be more effective when it is shared within other people's networks.
Don't Neglect Networking
Make it a part of your day and get in the routine of networking. This way it is harder to forget to send out that email, write that blog post, or get those marketing materials printed. Once you get the ball rolling, you will be surprised by how fast and how large your network grows.
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Michigan Ave.