One Business Network

Beginning conversations with people you don't know can be very daunting.  Try to remember that other people will find it difficult too.  If you are at a networking event, you are all there to generate contacts and business, so don't be shy.

The best way to begin a conversation is often to comment on the weather, or the food, or the terrible journey you have had, or something in the news that day.  Don't worry about talking about your business straight away, just make a comment to initiate the conversation.

Sources of business referrals are best found in professional networking groups.  It is often better to join a few groups which you can attend regularly, rather than be a member of lots of groups that you only visit once in a blue moon.  That way, people will get to know you and you will build relationships quicker.  By getting involved in chairing the groups, or becoming part of the leadership teams, this process will be speeded up even further.