The St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce met on Thursday, Sept. 11, at Pusser’s Bar & Grille where Tracey Phillips, CEO of REACH Success Systems, spoke on the importance of building relationships in business and networking.
After everyone introduced themselves, Phillips began by saying that “there is nothing more important in business than growing relationships.” She explained that anyone can make connections in business, but not everyone knows how to grow them.
In her first point, Phillips said that, when going into a networking setting, it’s critical to shift your mindset to how you can serve others rather than thinking about what you can get from them. Being genuine and seeking to help others is valuable. People will pick up on this and are more likely to want to work with you.
Phillips also expressed that success in networking boils down to being intentional. Seek to connect with people who share your values or align with your mission. It’s more important to ask questions and listen to others than it is to talk.
“Be interested, not just interesting,” Phillips said.
Instead of talking so much about your own business, ask specific questions about theirs. Active listening is key and shows that you care.
Next, Phillips emphasized the significance of building trust in networking. In business, people want to know that you are consistent and reliable.
“People buy from people they know, like and trust,” Phillips said.
Following up and reaching out to people shows that you care and want to connect with them. Failing to follow up can lead to lost connections, but staying in touch can maintain them. Texting a personalized message, inviting them to coffee or sending a valuable article can lead to next steps in business.
Phillips said something as simple as wishing them happy birthday can leave a lasting impact.
“It’s nice to be recognized,” she said.
Additionally, helping people by connecting with them shows that you add value and that you genuinely want to help rather than expect something in return.
“Networking is not a one-time event,” Phillips said. “It’s a habit.”
Showing up consistently at community events can also help build your business. The more people are familiar with you, the more likely they are to trust and want to work with you.
In her last point, Phillips explained that relationships equal results. Strong business relationships are what lead to growth and open the door to more opportunities.
“Networking is not just about creating contacts,” Phillips said. “It’s about creating advocates.”
Before closing, Phillips suggested alternative conversation openers instead of merely asking about jobs because they lead to more authentic conversations.
After lunch, Phillips gave everyone the opportunity to practice networking and building relationships using the key points she discussed. Genuine and engaging conversations began and everyone walked away knowing how to build better relationships and network effectively.
