Updated January 13, 2023
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Are you missing out on great business networking opportunities? Many business owners do just that by focusing solely on online sales efforts while ignoring offline person-to-person engagement. We believe you need a balanced lead generation approach, and there’s a direct link to strategic networking and online stats tracked by Web Analytics.
The thought of face-to-face networking may make some entrepreneurs cringe. Even so, it’s an essential part of an overall successful marketing strategy. The synergistic relationship between online and offline networking can increase influence, build a client base, and ultimately boost sales.
Making the Connection
Offline business networking allows you to connect directly with prospective leads where you can explain your products or services. Potential clients who do not use social media (or haven’t found your website through organic search) may be more easily engaged in personal conversation. These connections may also have the ability to introduce you to people actively looking for your services. Besides getting a direct, immediate response from your networking efforts, this feedback can be also translated into more effective web copy, networking’s online counterpart.
Bringing your offline contacts online is an easy way to boost your marketing success. Acquiring email addresses during offline conversations helps you build your email marketing lists and improve client interaction, as newsletters and email campaigns are a simple way to keep your interested client connected with your company. Don’t forget to connect via LinkedIn and other appropriate Social Media platforms so you can continue the conversation.
Beyond Comfort Zones
Knowing the importance of face-to-face networking doesn’t necessarily make it easier, however. To incorporate this business strategy may require courage and planning. It may require you to stretch outside your comfort zone but, as Jack Canfield said, “most everything that you want is just outside your comfort zone.”
To become comfortable enough to attain the benefits of offline networking, you may want to practice conversing about your business. Write an introductory script and then practice it. Try it out to trusted colleagues and friends. Focus on maintaining eye contact and speaking clearly so you make the best impression when introducing yourself and discussing your business.
An effective offline networking strategy takes time and practice. If you don’t have enough time for offline interaction, you may need to consider outsourcing some of your e-marketing so that you have more time to personally represent your company. Business is all about relationships. Don’t let social fears prevent you from growing your client base. Confidence and success grow as you get better and better at business networking, making it well worth the effort.
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