Networking

Networking is a hugely valuable way to promote your business. It’s “word of mouth” marketing in practice. Attending a networking event can provide you with the opportunity to meet face to face with potential clients. It’s a much softer approach than cold calling, and is without doubt more memorable and more enjoyable for both parties. At Cork Chamber, we have heard many great success stories from our members, about how they met their current biggest client at a Chamber event, or how they got in the door of a business that they had been calling without success for some time, through a Chamber introduction.

In advance of Chamber networking events, we circulate the list of registered attendees, so this gives you the opportunity to prepare and strategize for the event. Networking is not just about turning up at events and dishing out business cards and flyers. We recommend that you practise the “elevator pitch” - a 60-second summary of your business and its benefits for potential clients. At some networking meetings with Cork Chamber, you have the opportunity to do a “soapbox” – a five-minute presentation about your business. Take advantage of that and plan it well so that your audience will have a good idea of what you could do for them and their contacts.

As well as promoting your business, networking also gives you the opportunity to learn about other businesses and what they are offering. Sourcing new products and access to new suppliers is also an important benefit of networking with Cork Chamber. Always be prepared to listen to others at networking events – If you rush into telling someone all about yourself and monopolise a conversation, you may miss a golden opportunity. Make it a priority to really listen to each person you meet.

Networking is a great way to do business, and market you and your company.

To get started on your networking, click here for a full list of our upcoming events or here for our networking tips.