Introduction
Supply Nation events are a fantastic opportunity for Indigenous businesses to connect, learn, and grow with one another. These events bring together Indigenous business owners and procurement teams of Australia’s leading organisations, providing a platform for collaboration and success. If you’re looking to make the most of your networking experience, here are six essential tips to help you succeed at Supply Nation events.
- Attend Supply Nation Events Regularly
Consistent attendance at Supply Nation events is key to building a strong network within the Indigenous business community. Not only will you become more familiar with the key players, but you’ll also stay up-to-date on the latest trends, initiatives, and opportunities that may be relevant to your business. By participating in these events regularly, you’ll create a presence for your business and show that you’re committed to the community and its success.
- Prepare a Brief Introduction of Your Business
Before attending a Supply Nation event, take some time to prepare a short and concise introduction of your business. This should include your business name, the services or products you offer, and any unique selling points that set you apart from competitors. By having a prepared introduction, you’ll feel more confident when engaging with others and be able to communicate your business’s value effectively.
Your introduction should also touch on your background and your connection to the Indigenous community, as this will help establish common ground and build rapport with other attendees. Remember, first impressions are crucial, and a well-prepared introduction can go a long way in establishing a positive perception of your business.
- Bring Business Cards with You
While digital connections are valuable, there’s still something to be said for the tangible exchange of a business card. Make sure you have plenty of professional, high-quality business cards on hand to distribute to the people you meet at the event. Your business card should include your name, title, business name, contact information, and any social media profiles or websites where people can learn more about your business.
By offering a physical card, you give others a tangible reminder of your conversation and make it easier for them to follow up with you after the event. Plus, exchanging business cards can be a natural way to close a conversation, allowing you to move on to the next person without making the interaction feel abrupt.
- Be Open and Approachable
Your body language and demeanour can significantly impact how others perceive you and your business. When attending Supply Nation events, it’s essential to present yourself as open, approachable, and genuinely interested in making connections. Smile, maintain eye contact, and exhibit an open posture to demonstrate your receptiveness to new connections.
Additionally, try to avoid spending too much time on your phone or in small, closed-off groups. Instead, circulate the room and actively engage with others, making it clear that you’re there to connect and learn from other Indigenous business owners.
- Ask Questions and Show Interest in Others
Networking isn’t just about promoting your business; it’s also about building relationships and learning from others. To make meaningful connections, show genuine interest in the people you meet and their businesses. Ask questions about their experiences, challenges, and successes, and listen actively to their responses. By demonstrating that you value their insights, you’ll create a positive impression and build trust within the community.
Additionally, being curious about others can lead to potential collaboration opportunities, resource sharing, and even referrals. Remember, networking is a two-way street, and demonstrating that you care about the success of other Indigenous businesses can help foster a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Follow Up After the Event
Your networking efforts shouldn’t end when the event is over. To make the most of your connections, follow up with the people you met within a week of the event. A timely follow-up will show that you’re genuinely interested in maintaining the relationship and will help solidify the connection you made during the event. You can follow up via email, phone, or through social media platforms like LinkedIn.
In your follow-up message, be sure to reference the conversation you had at the event, express your gratitude for their time, and suggest any next steps or potential collaboration opportunities you may have discussed. Additionally, you can share relevant articles, resources, or information that you think might be valuable to them based on your conversation. By providing value in your follow-up, you’ll demonstrate your commitment to the relationship and further establish your credibility.
If appropriate, consider inviting them for a coffee meeting, phone call, or video conference to continue your conversation and explore ways to support each other’s businesses. Building a strong network within the Indigenous business community is an ongoing process, and nurturing these relationships can lead to long-lasting and mutually beneficial partnerships.
In Conclusion
Networking at Supply Nation events can be a powerful way to build connections, collaborate, and grow your Indigenous business. By attending events regularly, preparing a strong introduction, bringing business cards, being open and approachable, showing interest in others, and following up after the event, you’ll be well on your way to establishing a robust network within the Indigenous business community. Remember, networking is an investment in your business and its future success, so make the most of these opportunities to learn from and support your fellow Indigenous business owners.