Networking for Leads: The Art of Intentional Connections

I’ve been diving deeper into effective networking strategies lately, and honestly, it’s changed my whole approach to building business connections.

Let me share something with you…..most entrepreneurs just aren’t getting in front of enough of the right people. Period. That’s why I’ve been focusing on “networking for leads” in my Business Simplified Series. It’s not just about collecting business cards, but it’s about being strategic and intentional with every interaction.

Before you hit up that next Chamber of Commerce meeting or industry conference, take five minutes to create a tiny action plan. Who exactly do you want to meet? What do you hope to learn? How can you support them? How will you follow up?

Trust me, this makes all the difference.

I learned this lesson the hard way. Recently, there was this big business networking event in Dallas everyone was talking about. Free admission, big names attending. Seemed perfect, right? But after thinking about whether my target audience would actually be there, I decided to skip it. And you know what? Best decision ever. My time is too valuable with family, work, and business competing for attention.

When preparing for entrepreneur networking events, be super specific and intentional about what events you go to and who you want to connect with. Jot down actual names if possible. And don’t let someone’s fancy title or wealth intimidate you. People are just people.

My dad used to joke that I should hand out at least 20 business cards at every event. But the real message? Be intentional about your networking goals. Decide exactly how many meaningful connections you want to make. Five? Ten? Then be clear about what you want them to do next. Join your Facebook group? Connect on LinkedIn? Schedule a coffee chat?

But here’s where most people drop the ball with business networking…..the follow-up! Set a specific sequence for yourself. Will you text, email, or DM? When? Add them to your CRM immediately and start nurturing that relationship.

Above all, be authentic. People can smell fake from a mile away. Ask genuine questions, listen actively, and take note of what matters to them. This builds trust and creates authentic connections that might become long-term business allies or partnerships.

I personally use both digital cards (HiHello is my favorite) and paper business cards because they “travel” well. Whatever your personal branding approach, make sure you’re consistently sharing your information.

Networking strategies don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert (and yes, introverts love money too!), intentional networking can transform your lead generation efforts. Think quality over quantity.

What’s your biggest challenge with networking? Drop me a comment. I’d love to help you overcome it! Truth be told, this isn’t something that I was born with or was once really good at. I have had to learn the process over the years, and I would love to share with your ways to improve your intentional networking muscles, too.

TL;DR: You don’t have to be the loudest in the room…..just the most intentional. Define your goals, target the right rooms, don’t sweat being yourself, and follow up like you mean it. Networking isn’t magic. It’s methodical, and yes, even introverts can master it.

Still feeling stuck? Let’s map it out together, schedule your Free Clarity Call now.