Houston Business Networking List
As a business owner, one of the best ways to stay connected with your community while increasing your revenue is…
Dun Dun DUNNN
Networking events!
And if you are like me, when you have a hectic schedule, the last thing you want to do is waste your time at a business networking event that wasn’t worth your time.
Soooo, I decided to compile and share a Houston Business Networking List of groups and networking events that are business focused where I have been able to create amazing connections and build great business relationships.
You can download the list below:
👇 Download Your Houston Networking Group List 👇
Now, how can you actually use this Networking Groups and Associations List?
Different networking events give you different kinds of connections and leads. So, the first thing I recommend you to do is to check all the URLs on the list and see if the attendees match your Audience Persona <- – – Click to download a free template if you are not sure who’s your ideal client.
Once you know who’s your target audience, you want to make sure that you are showing up at the right events where you can find them.
Here are some types of events that can get you the leads you need to grow your business:
- Guest Speaker Gatherings
If you come across an event that has a speaker that is related to your industry, GO! These types of events bring like-minded business owners that you can connect with that can lead you to new networks or allow you to build partnerships. Also, by hearing from experts in your field, you may learn tips and strategies that can help you grow even more.
- Breakfast Events
These types of events are great because they allow you to meet professionals in a comfortable setting. People that go to these events are willing to listen to what you have to offer while enjoying a morning meal. Think about it like this, you are their first pitch of the day before their stressful work day hits, that will give you a better opportunity for a lead.
- After-Work Meet Up groups or Happy Hours
Schedule some time to go to gatherings after work hours so you have time to unwind while you network with potential clients or partners. These events are known for being laid back with casual talk, so it is the perfect setting to make new connections with your professional skills.
How To Ace Your Networking Game
Now that you know where to go, let me give you a few tips that will help you up your game.
- # 1 – Carry business cards at all times
You don’t ever want to be stuck in a situation where a potential customer that is interested in your company asks for your business card and you don’t have it. The best way to always to prepared is to have separate stacks of them in different places like your desk at the office, your purse or briefcase, your car, and at even at home to restock.
Your business card must include your phone number, email address, and website. If you have an email address that ends in “yahoo” or “gmail”, you are risking looking unprofessional. Make sure you have a domain name and website to look professional. If you don’t know how much to budget, check out this blog: How Much Should You Spend On Your Website.
- #2 – Don’t just talk, listen
When you are networking it is important to remember that you are not just selling your business to someone else, you are also seeing what their company offers. Make sure you listen to their side of the conversation as well and tell them what you can do for them based on what they say. You don’t want to waste your time on someone that is not in need of your services, so pay attention.
Another great idea is to link with them on Social Media during the event. Simply ask:
“Let’s connect on LinkedIn!” or,
“What’s your Facebook Company page?”
If you don’t know how your company is doing with your Social Media, request a Free Social Media Report to find out!
If you are not sure about exploiting the great benefits of Social Media for your business, a good read is: How Social Media Can Save Your Business
- #3 – Write on their business card
Some conversations go really well really fast, so you don’t want to forget any good leads you have. After you talk with someone, write on their business card about what you talked about so when you reach out to them you can give them a more personal proposal. If you write specifically what service they could benefit from, that will help you in the future.
- #4 – Always Follow Up
The secret is in the follow up. The day after or better yet, the same day you meet someone at a networking event, send them a quick follow up email or a quick call. This is especially important if the person you talked to was interested in your services. You want to strike when the iron is hot, so don’t miss a good opportunity by waiting too long to reach out.
What I like to do is to block time in my calendar after the event, usually no more than 30 minutes, and I stop at a coffee shop to send those emails BEFORE I get back to the office, because once I’m back, that business card will stay on my desk for weeks!
For more tips, make sure to check: The Networking Guide For Beginners
Hope you find this blog post helpful! And remember, if you want to always stay ahead of the curve, make sure you enter your email to get your free business tips. Don’t worry, we won’t spam you! We’ll keep sharing more tips to help you grow your business.
So, what’s your biggest struggle or best tip when it comes to networking?
Leave your comment below!
Happy Networking 🙂
