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Network more efficiently to open up oppurtunities among clients and within the design community.

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By Joanie Neumayer

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Networking should be part of your business model, not just something you add on to your schedule at conferences or tap into for a last-minute favor. Look at your career goals and objectives, especially in the near- to mid-term, and start thinking about whom you need to get to know to make them happen. Consider what you have to give back to your contacts and how you can work with them to expand your networking circle even further. Here are some simple guidelines to making the most of your own personal outreach program.

 

Make Contact and Share

Whether you use it or not, you already have a broad and diverse network by virtue of the design business. Over your history of projects, you've made contacts with architects, lighting designers and landscape architects, as well as signage, graphic, kitchen, spa and myriad other consultants. You have the names, but how do you really begin to work this network?

Reach out to all of these resources. Make sure they have your latest company brochure and let them know about projects they might get involved in. Ask for their latest portfolio and ask about the types of projects they're taking on. Are they doing anything in Brazil? What do they know about doing business in Vietnam? Have they worked with Brand X?  How was their experience with Brand Y?  What we learned in preschool still applies today: Sharing (information) is the key to a good relationship.

 

Meet, Greet and Follow Up

Conferences and trade shows provide a quantity of networking opportunities, but not always quality. As we all know, the list of "key" conferences in our industry has multiplied, and the cost of these conferences can mount quickly. It's important to do your research before a conference to understand the attendee profile and learn who the speakers and panelists are, so you can plan to attend their sessions. Leave ample time to talk with them afterward or at least introduce yourself and leave your card.

If you're thinking of expanding into different markets or service offerings, you can look for conferences outside of the typical hospitality design circles. Look for conferences advertised in international publications or specific trade journals for the markets in which you want to work. And, once the conference is over, take the time to follow up with the people you've met. Don't just come back to your office and toss that delegate bag in the corner! 

 

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