The Coaches Console is now a multi-seven-figure business (can I get a “woohoo”?!)—and I can tell you this: it’s built on a solid foundation of networking. Now, you may think you’ve got networking all figured out: go to an event, give a business card, take a business card, and voila! You’re building your connections, your network, and your company. Right? Wrong! There’s one major rule of networking, and I think you should break it, every time! Watch the video below to see what it is, and what I suggest you do, instead.
Now that you know what not to do at networking events, and how to ensure you leave each one in complete control of the follow up, you’re on the right track to grow your business efficiently through networking. Which means you’re also on the right track to improve your chances of booking sample sessions, growing your mailing list, and increasing your conversion rates. (So exciting!)
Next, I’d like to offer you a complimentary resource designed to teach you the step-by-step process to brand and launch your coaching business and generate consistent income. It’s The Ultimate Coaching Business Blueprint: The Behind-the-Scenes Magic That Creates a Smoothly-Running Coaching Business, and its accompanying training video. Download both, at no cost, here:
Discover What To Do Now—And Later—To Create A Thriving Coaching Biz.
Melinda, I really enjoyed your video! Your rule breaking idea makes soooo much sense. I too want the control to be able to initiate the follow-up but have felt empty when I leave an event after giving out cards and wondering if anyone was going to call me. I’m definitely going to implement your recommendation!
Heather – only give a card if/when you get a card… always ask them in your connection conversation if they are interested in receiving your free gift/lead magnet and always have your follow up ready and implemented in advance! It makes things so much more smooth (and fun)!
When I first came to see what you were about it was your style that caught my eye it is beautiful and simple. The services you provide are (and were) exactly what I was looking for. Your kindness and excellence customer service keeps me coming back!!!
I’m so grateful we’ve been connected for as long as we have Karen!
So if everyone did that no one would get business cards which would mean no one follows up. I’d rather some had my card so that if they needed it they knew how to contact me. And with the anti-spam legislation (at least in Canada) just because someone gives you their business card it doesn’t mean that they have given their consent to be added to a mailing list.
I’ve seen people doing what you suggest at networking events and my only thought was that they just weren’t prepared.
I once met a man who gets a lot of money to do keynote talks who said to not only give out business cards but to give out two. One for the recipient and one for them to pass on to someone else.
That being said, I don’t give out cards unless someone asks for one. I once went to a women’s networking meeting and women were just dropping biz cards and postcards and brochures at everyone’s place and it was ridiculous.
Hey Julia – I totally agree when folks just drop business cards without any context, relationship or conversation it is ridiculous… they’re missing the point. Not how I prefer to do business. I also agree to only give one IF you get one… I think I said that in my video that’s what my biz partner, Kate, always says… One of the best things I’ve seen is right on the spot to have the opt in page on your tablet or smartphone and when you’re talking to someone and you say “could I send you my free gift” and they say yes, you have them quickly enter their name and email right in the opt in form on the spot… super easy, super clean… (then of course give them one of your cards as well). It sounds like you’re a great networker!
I love the idea of having the opt in ready on your phone to sign people up in the moment
super easy and super efficient at the same time… One of our Coaches Console members did this not only at a networking event but also at a conference she attended where she had a booth set up… she had them opt in right on the spot! and the follow up was automated so they were receiving the follow up while still at the event… they were impressed with how personal and how efficient it was at the same time!
I am a Realtor in Phoenix and I work by referral. I teach my clients to text or call me with their referrals information. If they were handing out my card to someone interested in Buying or Selling they would have to have my card on them, the potential client would have to have it handy when they are ready and remember who gave it to them. My clients often ask for a “stack” of my cards. I would rather they have my name in their phone as My Realtor Kim…. then as you say I can follow up with their friend, family or coworker.
EXACTLY!!!! Great process Kim!