These days a lot of networking takes place over social media, which can be a great platform for sharing inspiration and information. But sometimes you can’t beat some face-to-face interaction.
Between now and Christmas there’s a host of events taking place in the hairdressing industry that offer endless networking possibilities – Salon International, The Alternative Hair Show, and HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards, to name but three.
The great thing about hairdressing events is that you’re going to have something in common with the person sitting or standing next to you. The hardest part of networking can often be that ice-breaker question that will get a conversation started. But if you’re standing at one of the inspirational stages at Salon International, what could be easier than turning to someone else in the audience and asking: “what did you think of that presentation?” Who knows, it could lead to a conversation that sees receiving some great insight into how you could improve your business or boost your client column.
Sharing is the secret to effective networking. Ask plenty of questions, but also be prepared to give back. As long as the person you are talking to isn’t a direct competitor, what have you got to lose from sharing your expertise? If you open up, your new contact will too.
If you make a valuable connection with someone at an event, don’t be shy about suggesting you keep in touch. If you have a business card, this is the time to hand it over – not as soon as you’ve introduced yourself. Follow up within a couple of days with a friendly email saying how good it was to meet and to stress that you really would love to catch up some time. Leave it too long and the moment can be lost.
Networking isn’t about doing the hard sell, forget the elevator pitch approach, it’s about engaging in meaningful conversation – and that’s something every hairdresser and salon owner has plenty of experience in.
Enjoy the next few months of shows, awards and exhibitions, and see if you can make some new, meaningful connections.