Business Development’s Post

Are networking events dead? I think so, especially if you are a job seeker. Traditional networking events often cater more to business leaders and founders, offering limited ROI for job seekers attending numerous events. Here are some things I have found to be beneficial when networking - 1. Leverage LinkedIn for Thought Leadership Share Valuable Content: Regularly post insights, articles, and industry updates to showcase your expertise. Personal Outreach: After someone engages with your content, send a personalized message thanking them and suggesting a virtual coffee chat to discuss mutual interests. 2. Utilize Cold Email Effectively Craft a Compelling Subject Line: Make it clear and intriguing. Personalize the Email: Reference a recent achievement or publication of the recipient and explain why you want to connect. Template: Hi [Name], I recently read your article on [Topic] and found it very insightful. As someone passionate about [Related Field], I'd love to discuss your perspectives and share some ideas. Would you be open to a brief call next week? Best, [Your Name] 3. Engage in Online Communities Join Relevant Groups: Participate in forums, LinkedIn groups, and industry-specific online communities. Active Participation: Answer questions, share your knowledge, and engage in discussions. Example: Join a LinkedIn group related to your field and regularly contribute by commenting on posts or starting discussions on recent trends or challenges. 4. Attend Virtual Conferences and Webinars Choose Interactive Sessions: Opt for smaller, interactive sessions where you can engage more directly with speakers and other attendees. Follow-Up: Reach out to speakers and participants after the event. Mention something specific you learned or enjoyed about their presentation. Example: "Hi [Name], I attended your webinar on [Topic] and was particularly intrigued by your point on [Specific Detail]. I'd love to connect and discuss this further." 5. Volunteer for Industry Projects or Committees Get Involved: Join industry associations or committees where you can contribute your skills and expertise. Build Credibility: Work closely with other professionals, demonstrating your commitment and competence. Example: Volunteer to organize a local chapter event for your professional association or contribute to a collaborative industry project. Traditional networking events often fail to deliver consistent results because everyone attends with different agendas. While some strategies highlighted by the HBR article are interesting, they often apply mainly to founders and business leaders and are not realistic for a jobseeker. You are dealing with people, so you must learn to forge genuine connections rather than engaging in a transactional relationships. This is where real networking happens. #Networking #CareerGrowth #JobSearch #ProfessionalDevelopment #LinkedInTips #BusinessNetworking #dubai #UAE

The best way to network is to avoid networking events entirely.

I love the thought leadership of HBR but this one in my view is somewhat misleading on the opportunity of Business Networking. Firstly,it’s not what you get from Business Networking that counts it is what you bring to it. Since starting a business just over 2 years ago business networking has been a successful platform of development. Since our engagement in this strategy we have given generously through our business networks: 👉 Probono support to support the work of charities. 👉Sponsorships of events; 👉Thought leadership sharing including insights, ideas and tips/tricks from our profession at business networking events. 👉Connection facilitation of fellow business people with others to whom we are already connected. Secondly, the reciprocation comes when people get to know and trust who you are and your credibility in business. Continual appearance in business networking is pivotal to this, not isolation or absence. Overall our business has gained considerably from business networking and for HBR to premise a view that business networking presents as a takers only agenda and not worth the time, is perhaps a little academic in my opinion and not that of business networking practitioners POV. #businessnetworking #smallbusiness #hbr

So many better ways to help move your business forward.

Don’t Waste Your Time on Networking Events 🚨 Large, traditional business networking events are a time-honored institution. They have been a staple of aspiring and successful professionals for so long that most networking advice focuses not on whether you should attend, but on how to make the most of these events when you do attend. In theory, they’re one of the best ways to grow your business. Here’s the problem: you’re probably not getting the consistent results you’re looking for. Regardless of how you define networking, your success will be directly tied to your ability to interact with people looking to achieve many of the same things you are. The most basic problem with traditional networking events is that they are mixing bowls for professionals who are there for different reasons. Everyone there is focused on his or her own personal agenda, whether it’s signing a new client, creating awareness for their business, or connecting with someone in the hopes of developing a mutually beneficial relationship. Everyone is playing a different game, which is why there are usually no clear winners. Too many professionals are quick to attend yet another networking event, when in reality, they should be spending that time focusing more on their existing relationships. My definition of “networking” is any activity that increases the value of your network or the value you contribute to it. The best way to do this is to avoid traditional networking events almost entirely. There are more efficient and effective ways to spend your time.

The best way to network is to avoid networking events entirely.

The best way to network is to avoid networking events entirely.

The Harvard Business Review article "Don’t Waste Your Time on Networking Events" likely argues that traditional networking events can be inefficient and might not always yield the desired results. My opinion on this remains similar: while these events may not always be the most effective way to build meaningful professional relationships, they can still have value when approached with the right mindset and strategy. The key is to focus on building genuine connections rather than merely collecting contacts. This can be done by identifying key individuals you want to meet, engaging in meaningful conversations, and following up afterward to nurture the relationship. Additionally, complementing networking events with other forms of networking, such as online interactions or one-on-one meetings, can enhance your overall networking success. In essence, while networking events should not be the sole focus, they can still be a useful tool when integrated into a broader, more strategic approach to building professional relationships.

As per the article, traditional networking events often yield inconsistent results due to diverse attendee agendas. Instead, focus on strengthening existing relationships and increasing your network's value by hosting your own events. This approach provides control over the attendees and setting, making it a more effective way to add value and develop meaningful connections.

#Coffeeruminations This article is spot on. And I add the following: For every satisfied client you have, there is a chance they can #connect you to another client or connection. And can act as a #brand ambassador for you. Getting a referral is good. Getting a #referral from a satisfied #client = #priceless. Start there. Be #purposeful and methodical. Then be #thankful, and very important: #reciprocate.