Networking events present some of the best opportunities for businesses to connect, establish relationships, and learn valuable industry information. They’re also a great way to organically advertise your products and/or services while generating leads. However, whether you’re hosting or sponsoring one of these collaborative events, you don’t really need to sell anything to anyone. In fact, it’s often best that you hold off on selling. This may come as a surprise, but there are some key reasons for this. Let’s elaborate on why you don’t need to sell at networking events.
Your Name is Already in Lights
This is especially the case if your business is hosting the event. Your name will be front and center on every promotional email, sign, and document. In a sense, people are there because of you. But even if you’re just one of many sponsors, your presence alone is enough to be recognized. Of course, you still want to do what you can to stand out. You can uniquely decorate your booth, hand out informational pamphlets, offer some freebies, and even set up a game to engage potential leads and business partners. Don’t just be a part of the event – make a statement and encourage others to meet you. You don’t have to directly sell anything to anyone. Instead, you may make some new connections while stamping the event with a strong impression.
Selling isn’t the Main Goal
Some may argue this point, but for the most part, networking events aren’t the place to generate sales. Selling simply isn’t the goal here. As their title implies, networking events are about networking. This includes socializing, sharing, and learning. If you sponsor an event and focus on selling, you’ll most likely find yourself on the outs. The truth is, every business in attendance is thinking about increasing their sales generation. However, they’re thinking in the long-term. Networking events provide the space for people to team up and find new ways to optimize their own businesses. The selling part comes later. It’s all about symbiosis at these events.
Listen More than You Speak
When we talk about selling, we don’t just mean financial transactions. To sell also means to convince others to consider your products or services. While every business constantly “sells itself” in any way it can, this mindset can hinder you at networking events. As previously mentioned, you’re already selling yourself just by being in attendance. Going the extra mile and talking over others, flashing business cards in everyone’s faces, and bragging about your accomplishments goes against the spirit of these events.
You should want to listen to what other people have to say more than you should want to speak. You already know how your business is doing and where it needs help. At networking events, find potential partners who can help your business and that your business may help in return. A good partnership will land both of you more sales in the long run.
It’s All About Leads
Whether you’re at a networking event or stuck in the office, you always want to be looking for leads and utilizing the best lead generation strategies to do so. A great lead is the beginning of many sales to come. ProScout Lead Generation Services knows this well. We help businesses grow in the long term by focusing on people and relationships. Whether you need help setting up collaborative events or collecting data on potential candidates, our team is here for you. To learn more about us, contact ProScout Lead Generation Services at our Chattanooga or Nashville offices today!
