I go to networking events on a regular basis. Before I developed a system, plenty of opportunities slipped through my hands because I failed to follow up. I was easily distracted by other aspects of my business that always crept up before I could follow up the next day. Creating a system kept me focused, organized and accountable. Here are five practical steps that will help you maximize your networking efforts:

• Write notes on business cards as you get them regarding anything you promised, people you know in common, next steps. Develop a code to identify the person as a prospect, referral partner, etc. These notes will help jog your memory the next day when you’re looking at a handful of business cards.
• When you schedule the networking event on your calendar, carve out 30 minutes the following day to follow up with new contacts, connect on social media sites and update data bases.
• Create a follow up email template for the events you frequent the most. “Nice meeting you at XYZ event. I always enjoy their weekly, monthly…and hope you did as well…let’s get together for a call or coffee next week. I’ll give you a call to see what works best for you…”
• Make a checklist of social media sites to connect on and databases to add to (i.e., newsletter)
• Add to your task list and/or calendar any follow up required with new contact with a reminder right away.

These simple steps provide you with the time and tools to build relationships with more people who are important to you and to your business, whether they are a new clients, business partners or friends. Now get out there and network! And have fun!

(Hint: documenting systems in your business also makes it easier to delegate all or portions of the process to someone else.)

By having a few basic components in place, you can minimize the impact of life’s curveballs and be the established business owner your clients are counting on. Below are 3 important areas to focus on when creating a solid foundation for your business:

Create Systems: Think of a situation in your business that requires regular action and attention. Maybe it’s staying in touch with prospects or welcoming new clients on board. Or backing up your computer or billing your clients. Take a minute, write down the steps it takes to accomplish these tasks, and then brainstorm on how to automate it; perhaps it’s creating document templates or utilizing technology for better efficiency. For example my client billing is now fully automated through Freshbooks, an online invoicing system.

Documentation: Create an Operations Manual for your business. Document and organize all those great systems you just created in one place, and keep record of important elements of your business, such as client contact information, your business accounts, vendors, team members, insurance information, etc. You are creating a driver’s manual for your business that you or someone else can easily refer to and follow if necessary.

Build Your Team: It takes a village to run a small business. I fell asleep many a night with Nolo Press on my chest until I realized it was impossible to be an expert at everything and not very practical. The best thing you can do for your sanity and your business is to utilize the professionals who exist to support you. Make them part of your team, part of your success. Start with the team members that make the most sense for you. My recommended dream team: CPA, Bookkeeper, IT Support, Administrative Support Specialist, Legal Consultant, Web Designer, Business Coach.

By creating the proper foundation and support for your business, you set yourself apart from your competition and show your ideal clients that you care enough about your business to care about theirs!

What are the advantages of working with a Virtual Administrative Support Specialist?

Partnering with a virtual administrative support consultant allows business owners to utilize their time more effectively by focusing their attention on opportunities for growing their business and on implementing strategies already in place. It also leaves them with more time to enjoy their success. After all, enjoying success is what it’s all about!

There is significant cost savings involved in working with a virtual administrative support consultant. Virtual Ms. Money Penny is here to help you reduce your daily workload by taking the non-critical items off your already busy schedule.

Contact us today to learn more about the advantages of how having a virtual personal assistant will impact your business!