As I completed one of my annual readings, I was reminded of the need develop bonds with those of influence. “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill speaks of the power of the mastermind and the need to have strong alliances that aid business success. As I completed this it reminded me of a recurring issue in selling- networking.

Selling professionals and successful entrepreneurs are not isolated. Review any successful person and numerous others always surround them. They do not live in a vacuum and understand the need for constant connectivity to assist them in building their respective businesses. Look at others in your organization or other successful individuals, do you notice similar?

One of the most valuable components of marketing is branding. Moreover, to help manifest the brand, organizations and individuals needs to help that brand proliferate by having others create buzz. Sellers and entrepreneurs use similar means with the depth of their networks. They assist in driving business by meeting new people, opening doors unknown to them and lessening labor.

Here are some questions to help you review your network:

1.            Who is in your network?

2.            How often do you communicate with them?

3.            Are they a person of influence?

4.            Can they assist you?

While many sales professionals buy lists and comb phone directories, a network of influential individuals can eliminate time, reduce stress and save hordes of money. I know of one company where the mandate is to knock on doors for new business. That is a lot of rejection and wasted time. Would not a proper network aid this effort? To grow business you must emulate others that are successful at it. So what might you do?

1.            Begin to attend networking groups where you can meet individuals. Do not be taken in by the folly of groups where members simply want to sell you something. Attend functions where you can build alliances but do not be a wallflower you must actively participate.

2.            Use your existing network to help you expand. Tell your network

your value proposition. Ask that they introduce you to others that might require your value.

3.            You need to review your current network. I learned long ago that a person is a sum of all parts and if your network is not influential you just might need to

purge. Yes, eliminate those that do not aid you or waste time. There is a cliché if you want to be a millionaire you have to affiliate with them. Is your network pushing you to newer heights?

4.            Beware of the folly of social media and individuals that are Lions, Tigers, Bears, Cats, Dogs and Sheep. It is not quantity but

quality. Does it matter that someone has 15,659 followers if there are not decision makers in the queue.

5.            Spend useful time with useful people. Purge associations, charities

In addition, other time consuming organizations. Spend useful time with those that can affect your business.

6.            Avoid the baseball card theory. Collecting business cards is not a lead generation system. What you do with the cards after is. Many people believe business cards are gold bullion. If you do not follow-up, you have is manure.

7.            Networks need to be catered. You must remain actively involved and nurture the individuals as they say out of sight out of mind. A gentleman recently lost a significant piece of business when he failed to follow up with his network connection.

There are 7 techniques you can use daily to assist you sales efforts. If you seek a additional alternatives to building your network email me today. And ask about our Free 30 Minutes “Sales Acceleration Coaching Clinic”.

©2009. Drew J. Stevens Ph. D. All rights reserved.

Drew Stevens PhD works with organizations to dramatically accelerate revenue. Dr. Drew is the author of six books including Split Second Selling and the soon to be released Ultimate Business Bible. He is also the creator of the Sales Leadership Certificate one of only 14 programs in the United States offering an accredited degree in the profession of selling and has a top ranked podcast called Sales Fitness with Dr. Drew. To gain a free 30 Minute Coaching Session or to request Secrets of Ultimate Business Success contact Dr. Drew today get the proper prescription for your success.

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