The best networking tip that has helped member Sonya Cavanough grow her business fourfold. Here’s her top networking tips from our February event.
I must admit, I was feeling a bit nervous about speaking today, especially since I left all my notes at home. So, I’m winging it with just a few points jotted down on my phone. But here we are, and I’m excited to share a bit about my LinkedIn Local journey with you. It’s quite surreal to be speaking about this around the same time as my very first LinkedIn Local meeting, which was the last live venue event we had before the lockdowns in 2020. A lot has happened in these past four years, and reflecting on that time has been quite a journey.
During the lockdowns, LinkedIn Local offered immense support through weekly Zoom check-ins organized by Brandon, Mark, and Isa. These meetings were a lifeline, helping me stay connected and supported. As restrictions eased and we could meet in person again, Brandon invited me for a coffee. That coffee turned into a three-hour conversation at McDonald’s, and it was a game-changer for me.
That seemingly simple coffee meeting taught me something valuable: the importance of taking connections outside of formal settings and fostering relationships in a relaxed, personal environment. While our three-hour chat was a bit lengthy, it was incredibly meaningful. It helped me see the benefits of connecting with others over coffee—keeping it simple and straightforward.
One key takeaway from this experience is the importance of focusing on the other person during these catch-ups rather than just promoting your own services or business. By prioritizing genuine interest in others, you build trust and create a meaningful connection. If the opportunity arises to share about yourself, you can do so naturally.
This approach is inspired by the principles from the book The Go-Giver. If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend it. If you’d like to borrow a copy, feel free to see me after this talk. The essence of this principle is about getting to know people, building trust, and fostering genuine relationships. Over time, these connections can positively impact your business. When people trust you and know you well, they are more likely to refer you to their friends and family.
Since incorporating these one-on-one catch-ups into my routine, I’ve seen my business grow by 30% each year. I attribute much of this growth to stepping out of my comfort zone and investing in personal connections. These meetings often lead to forming new friendships, sometimes lifelong ones, and boost my confidence as a business owner.
So, if you’re considering integrating more personal meetings into your networking strategy, here’s my advice: reach out to someone, ask if they’d like to catch up, and make it happen. The focus should be on them, not on immediately promoting your business. This approach not only builds trust but also positions you as a reliable and supportive contact.
Thank you for listening, and I hope these insights prove helpful in your own networking journey. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, feel free to reach out.
Sonya Cavanough – Sonya Cavanough Counselling Services