The world of business is one based on first impressions, good etiquette, and a lot of knowledge. If you’re a businesswoman or businessman, it is important you are business savvy, meaning you understand the ins and outs of conducting financial deals with other entities.
Statistics indicate that 80% of professionals believe their success has been catapulted through professional networking.
How do you maneuver the world of business? You must first understand that a lot of times, it really is about who you know. Whether you currently own a business or are looking to start one, it always helps to know someone who can help you get your foot in the door. In addition, you do not need to be a business owner to conduct a successful business; it’s about how to be a professional that is savvy.
These tips will help you create valuable connections to achieve your career goals and be the best professional you can be.
Table of Contents
1. Keep Your Supplies Stocked
When it comes to business, you never know when you may need to spring into action. There should be certain supplies you always keep at home or in your wallet at all times. Such supplies include:
- Printer
- Printer ink
- Computer
- Phone
- Business Cards
- Envelopes
- Paper
- Sticky notes
- Pens, pencils
- White out
- Stapler
- Paper clips
“When it comes to business supplies, you should always be prepared,” says EnvelopeSuperstore.com. “You never know when you may get an important call or email that encourages you to spring into action.”
2. Network at Every Opportunity
As we mentioned, when it comes to conducting business, it’s all about who you know. This is why you should be networking at every opportunity you get. Use social media to find local networking events in your area. Attend virtual seminars tailored to your areas of interest or your industry of work. Networking refers to establishing business connections at mixers, fundraisers, or other related events. Once you establish these relationships, you may be introduced to possible professional or funding opportunities.
3. Have Contact Information Ready
One of the supplies you should always have in your back pocket are business cards. These cards should carry your contact information, including name, title, phone number, and email. The card should be good quality and eye-catching so that it remains memorable. Exchange business cards with the professionals you meet at networking events and contact them.
It is also important to note that you do not necessarily need to be a part of a networking event in order to network. You may simply spark up a conversation in your office building or with someone at the local store. They may turn out to be a great professional contact! Be prepared with business cards.
4. Dress the Part
Have you ever heard of the phrase “dress for success”? You should always be dressing the part of the person you want to become. This is taught in motivational seminars as a valid method to increase productivity and general wellbeing. When you dress in stylish, clean clothes, you feel sharp and ready to take on the day.
In addition, you also make a good first impression on those around you. This is especially true at networking events, but you may also run into someone that may be a good professional contact anywhere. You never know when your big break may come, so it’s important to dress to impress. That way, you not only look good, but you also feel good. This feeling of confidence may give you the courage you need to make business with others happen.
5. Know Your Industry
With so many different industries available today, it’s important you stay knowledgeable in your own industry as well as another surrounding, related ones. Knowledge is power, after all.
What does it mean to know your industry? It means understanding current trends, its history, and paths for growth. Know current business news to keep up with the conversation.
6. Remember, Time Is Money
This is another important saying that applies to business. Your time is valuable, and so is everyone else’s. In business, it is considered bad etiquette to waste someone’s time with false promises. You should cut to the chase and get your point across when discussing business. The last thing you want is to overpromise something and end up upsetting your potential business partner.
