When you hear the word networking, what’s your first reaction? Does it get you excited, or do you feel a little queasy? 😬
Let’s be real—some people love networking, while others would rather do just about anything else. And I get it! For many, networking feels forced, awkward, or even a little salesy. But it doesn’t have to be that way!
Networking, when done right, is about building genuine connections—not just handing out business cards like candy at a parade. It’s about real relationships that fuel your business and life, not just one-time transactions.
That’s exactly why I started Fayetteville Divas—to create a different kind of networking experience. A space where powerful women can connect, share their stories, and support each other—not just sell to one another. And guess what? It works. We have 25-60 incredible women show up at each event, and the energy is 🔥🔥🔥.
But to truly make networking work for you, there are some outdated “rules” you need to ditch. So, let’s break them—together. 😉
Rule #1: Always Hand Out Business Cards & Marketing Materials 🚫📇
Ever been at an event where someone shoved a flyer in your hand before even saying hello? Yeah… don’t be that person. 🙅♀️
💡 Why You Should Break This Rule:
- Handing out materials without building a connection first wastes resources (and most of those papers end up in the trash! 🙃).
- People don’t buy from papers—they buy from people they trust and connect with.
✅ What to Do Instead:
- Focus on meaningful conversations first. Get to know people before offering your info.
- If someone asks for your card, that’s the perfect time to share it!
- Want them to remember you? Follow up with a DM, email, or connection request after the event.
Rule #2: Talk About Yourself & Your Business First 🚫🗣️
Look, we all love talking about what we do—but if you lead with a self-focused pitch, you’re missing the magic of true networking.
💡 Why You Should Break This Rule:
- Networking is not about you—it’s about THEM.
- People remember how you made them feel, not just what you said.
- A one-sided convo feels like a sales pitch, and no one enjoys being “sold to.”
✅ What to Do Instead:
- Lead with curiosity! Ask, “What do you do?” or “What’s been exciting in your business lately?” 🤩
- Listen actively and find a way to connect on a deeper level.
- When they ask about you, keep it natural and engaging—not like a scripted pitch.
Rule #3: Assume Everyone Is a Potential Client 🚫🎯
I get it—you’re here to grow your business. But let’s break this myth: Not everyone you meet is meant to be your client. And that’s OK!
💡 Why You Should Break This Rule:
- You don’t need everyone—you need the right people.
- Referrals are gold—even if they aren’t your client, they might know someone who is!
- Quality over quantity—5 strong connections are better than 50 random handshakes.
✅ What to Do Instead:
- Focus on people who genuinely align with what you do.
- Build relationships first, business later.
- Treat networking like planting seeds—some will grow into partnerships, some into referrals, and some into friendships. 🌱✨
The Bottom Line: Build Connections, Not Just Contacts 💡💖
At the end of the day, networking should feel energizing, inspiring, and full of potential. If you shift your focus from “getting clients” to building relationships, you’ll attract the right people naturally.
🔥 Next Steps:
1️⃣ Try these new networking strategies at your next event.
2️⃣ Let me know which one helped you the most—drop a comment or message me!
3️⃣ If you haven’t been to a Fayetteville Divas event yet, what are you waiting for? We’d LOVE to meet you at our next 3rd Thursday event—check our Facebook page for details! 📅
Here’s to breaking the rules and making networking fun again! 🚀✨
To YOUR Success,
Jamie Sossamon
Founder, Fayetteville Divas
