Gone fishing

The core skill we need to be an effective networker is to ask the right questions. Wouldn't life be so easy if we went to an event and asked 'Are your tax advisers any good and if not would you like to appoint us?' Unfortunately it takes a little more subtlety than that.

In today's highly competitive world being a confident and effective networker sets you apart from the crowd. You become more visible always feel in control and will always create more business opportunities than the average. Asking the crude questions mentioned above will never win you a piece of business… ever!

Tax advisers are particularly uncomfortable with business development in general and selling in particular. It's not a secure arena; not like when you're in your office giving advice and showing your expertise. When you go out looking for new business there are...