Networking to survive

With start-ups currently facing only a 50% chance of survival, good networking has become vital to the growth of new businesses. Developing trusting relationships among key advocates is the key to success.

Successful networking could hold the key to survival for new businesses if entrepreneurs implement an effective strategy.

Ask yourself the following to form the basis of your networking plan:

• what is my target market?




• what is my proposition?




• who is likely to have access to my target market?




• how do I get to know them?




• how do I motivate them to introduce me to their network?

Like anything worthwhile, networking takes time and application. Take the time to develop relationships and create a network. Don't expect to walk into a room of strangers and come away with business – it just doesn't work like that!

The best business is developed when both parties know, like and trust each other. So take the time to get to know them and establish rapport.