If you’ve been on the sales scene in Chicago for a while, chances are you’ve found yourself at a networking event of some sort. In sales, it’s all about who you know, and how you can help each other. After all, networking isn’t only about staying connected to the people you already know and like; it’s about strategically gaining access to opportunities in others’ networks as well. But at Acquirent, we know just as well as anyone that it takes time and effort to cultivate valuable relationships, and you can’t expect to ask for favors without offering the same in return.
Perhaps the most obvious way that sales professionals can leverage their networks is the referral process. A recommendation from a trusted friend or business ally is invaluable, and often gets you closer to (or puts you directly in contact with) the person who can make the buying decision. But, you should definitely avoid putting all of your eggs in one basket. It’s easy to get into the habit of falling back on the tried and true, but this can become a destructive habit. The business landscape is constantly changing, and if one (or a few) of your contacts left their organizations to pursue new opportunities, would you lose your connections? If the answer is yes, then you need to start strengthening your relationships today. After all, it only takes one key connection to change your future and the future of your company.
Staying connected isn’t a revolutionary concept, but if you or your sales team are struggling to maintain healthy networks that can benefit your business, then it’s time to outsource your sales operations to people who can. When you outsource sales, you’re getting much more than a team of effective salespeople—by extension, you’re also getting access to their established networks.
Networking isn’t all schmoozing and long lunches—it takes work and insight to build and maintain meaningful business relationships. If that’s not your strong point, then it’s time to look into your Chicago-area sales outsourcing options.
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