Custom Apparel Startups

Episode 91 – Steps to Getting More Customers by Networking

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In this episode we have put together a formula to follow step-by-step that WILL get you more customers through the power of networking. This formula combines working hard, being personable and a little touch of psychology to give you that extra edge.

Here are the steps to making money with networking:

Attend Social Events

  • Meetup.com
  • Local Business & Commerce Groups
  • Events for kids where parents socialize (Kids B-day parties)
  • Church events

    • Go with intent to meet people (not to sell)

    • In discussion ask what someone else does first
    • Show interest in them. The more likely they are a prospect, the more
      • you talk about them. You can pitch your ideas or business later.
    • Mention what you do, and see how they react. (they may ask you to
      • talk about it)

      Having cards is important, GETTING cards is more important.

      • You have control of making contact, rather than waiting.
      • You can archive people into your contacts
      • Write notes on cards whenever possible
      • No card is even a great excuse to contact people (actually I don’t
        • have any cards with me, but I’ll email you and you can add me to your contacts… I can even mail you a few with more info about my company)

        Contact them ASAP.

        • If they discussed business or a referral, you are in. Contact them

          and discuss the business or proposal

        • Otherwise next steps are…..

        • Drop a quick email or social media contention

        • Let them know it was a pleasure to meet them

        • Be POSITIVE about something

        • View their website, store or social account and genuinely compliment

          something

        • “I just went to your Instagram feed and love your pictures, so

          creative”

        • “I ended up checking out your website, wow love the design”

        • “I googled your company and saw 100 5 star reviews on google WOW”

          or….Compliment something about your conversation

        • I love your idea about…..

        • It was really interesting discussing…

        • I didn’t know ….. could be so interesting.

          Follow up with a “by the way” email

          • Wait a handful of days and follow up again. This time ask for
            • something
          • “Hi…. I was thinking about our convo at…… have you considered getting
            • custom apparel for your business.
          • “Hi….. you mentioned you know a lot of small business owners… is
            • there anyone you can introduce me to that might need my services”
          • “Hey, I was wondering. I am trying to grow my business. could I make
            • you a custom shirt for your business and you tell me what you think?
            If you love them… you could buy more…. or refer me to some other
            people”
          • ” I am trying to meet more business owners to help grow my business,
            • (since I make t-shirts) are there any other groups or people you can
            intro me to. I am trying to build my network”

            Keep engaged with them

            • Don’t let your relationship end there. Keep on the edge of their
              • minds so when they need apparel or can refer someone you know them.

              TIPS:

              • Follow them on social… like, comment, share
              • Refer them business. If you know someone who needs their product or
                • service…… send them their way and make sure they know who sent them.
              • Leave them a review online.. “just met ……. these are the type of
                • people you want to do business with 5 stars”
              • Return to those social events and be sure to say hi to them. Even if
                • you are mingling with others.

                Using the above formula will help you build a large network of people who are business associates. Never forget to keep in contact, even if just every few months. Always remember to refer business whenever possible.

                TIP: If you are looking to build a network of associates, be sure to have a good way to keep track of them. Using a CRM is a good idea, can add notes, and access mobile.

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