Who’s in your Rolodex (for you millennials, a Rolodex is where we used to keep contact information before cell phones and social media)? Do you know who to call when you are struggling to find a new manufacturer or who can help you redesign your packaging? Connections are everything in the business world, but so many times we aren’t connecting with other peers in the e-commerce space because we are too busy and feel like networking is just another thing on a long list of to-dos. Networking is essential when it comes to growing a successful business and it’s easier than you think. Here are some simple principles we follow when it comes to networking and cultivating business relationships:
Quality Over Quantity
At conferences and networking events, you don’t need to meet everyone in the room. We recommend identifying exactly what you hope to gain from the event before you go and keeping this goal in mind while you’re there. Do you want to connect with someone who can help you with marketing? Is meeting someone who is a target customer and getting your product in their hands your goal? On Episode 3 of the Playbook for Amazon Podcast, we heard Kevin Liang (one of the best networkers we know) talk about how he always focuses on the one type of person he wants to meet at a business event, and is strategic about seeking out that interaction.
Relationships are More Important Than Receipts
Sometimes we are so focused on what we are getting out of someone or something that we neglect to develop positive rapport with others and end up coming off too pushy or salesy. The best partners we have are those with whom we’ve developed genuine friendships. We want people to know we aren’t just in it for what we can get out of a connection, but we genuinely want to add value for others. Plant the seed of trust and friendship and it will sprout into a tree of networking dividends.
Broaden Your Peer Group
In this coming year, make sure to seek out networking events to create new contacts and continue to nurture the ones you already have. You never know when a casual relationship will be the answer you’ve been looking for to grow your business.
Remember, you don’t need to go to an expensive conference across the country to network. Networking can happen anywhere you interact with other! Strike up a conversation with someone in a coffee shop or join a relevant Facebook group and engage with other members. When you open yourself up to positive interactions with your peers, you will find that they really are all around.
Now it’s time to get out there and build those connections! If you are ever in need of an Amazon consultant or you come across someone who is, you can honestly say, “Well I’ve got just the guy for you. Let me introduce you to TurnKey.” We’re happy to help (and have great affiliate programs so you can make some money just by making the intro). Sign up here to become an affiliate.