WPF Members Learn Networking Tips From Tye Maner

Sales trainer and motivator Tye Maner had a simple message for WPF dealers at the National Conference: We live in very challenging times and only the people who are willing to get up off their butts and make things happen will get rewarded. And even though your dealership may have some very talented and dedicated employees, no one in your organization cares about your business the way you do as owner or chief executive.

It’s time, Maner insisted, to put aside all the tired old reasons to stay in the office and get out and network and start discovering new business opportunities, instead.

In a fast-paced presentation titled appropriately, “Get Off Your Butt and Out of Your Office!” Maner provided a comprehensive guide to networking success, offering ways to overcome barriers to effective networking and tips for increasing success.

And why is networking important? Maner had a clear and concise answer: “If your business has anything to do with people—and ALL businesses do—you are in the business of building relationships and that means networking must be a key element of your business routine. “

It’s not unusual for sales professionals to be nervous about meeting new people out of concern about a negative first impression or fear of rejection, Maner admitted. But, he stressed, networking is too important for business growth to let fear stand in the way.

Conquer your fear, he urged. Commit to visualizing your success and what it will mean to your dealership, expect to be well received by new people you meet and recognize that mistakes are part of growth in any sphere of activity.

Above all, Maner continued, set goals for your networking that are SMART, that is, Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and defined in a Timeframe you’re willing to commit to.

Maner challenged his audience to ask themselves five key questions:

·        Do I have a 3 to 5-year networking plan?

·        Do I have a list of organizations that I can bring value and benefit from?

·        Who are the most important people that I must contact?

·        How much time can I commit?

·        Is my 30-second commercial honed?

Remember, Maner said, the goal of networking is to build relationships. You must be committed, consistent and willing to give first without asking for anything in return. Follow those rules and watch the rewards come to you, he predicted.