5 Tips for Effective Networking As a Virtual Assistant

As we think about building our business, the principle ‘It’s who you know’ often comes into play.

After all, in order to start working with someone, you have to get to know them.

Well, in order to get to know them you have to initially find them. Then you have to connect with them. This is what we call networking. Whether you do it in person on online, you should be conscious of a few things that will make your efforts a lot more fruitful.

1. Don’t be invisible. When you are networking, the key is to be seen. You need to join groups or attend events with the intention of coming away from the wall and actually talking to people. Be friendly, be helpful. People will connect with you when they like how you interact with people.

2. Never sell yourself or your services. While it may seem logical to talk about what you do, that can be deadly in the networking arena. People don’t want to hear you drone on about what you do and why it’s important. Everyone loves to talk about themselves, so in your networking, draw that conversation out of your connections. In order to know how you can help them, listen to them – they will tell you exactly what they need!

3. Make conversation. Remember that networking is a two way street. In order to get the other person talking, ask great questions … not the small talk ‘weather’ type questions, but really ask them what they do, how they do it, and so on. ‘Seed’ information about how you can help them with their business, but don’t bombard them with your knowledge. Remember, it’s back and forth conversation – and you want them to ask you questions too!

4. Network everywhere. Not only do you want to be networking with people on your own level, you also want to be connecting with people above you and below you. Find people that are more successful than you … that are less successful than you. Find colleagues and potential clients. Networking is all about relationships, and the more relationships you nurture the more you will learn about where you have been, where you are and where you are heading … and then you can apply that to your prospects as well.

5. Timing is everything. Don’t be in a hurry to make the relationship transition from prospect to client. These things take time. Networking is a strategy that builds equity and foundation in your business. It can take some time to get started, but when you take the time to really perfect your networking skills, and practice it regularly, you will find that before long you have a very solid network of clients, potential clients and colleagues alike.

For more tips on networking, check out my article on Etiquette Tips and my article on Talking About Yourself.

I’d love to hear your comments on this article!