Business Networking & Referrals with Faithann Basore

Faithann
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Learn business networking strategies to build real relationships, get more referrals, and grow your business. Hosted by Faithann Basore, this podcast helps you make the invisible parts of networking visible—like conversations, body language, and connection—so you can turn everyday interactions into real opportunities.

  1. 6d ago

    82: Summer Networking Pitches - How to Use Seasonal Themes to Earn More Referrals

    What do graduation parties, summer vacations, kids being home from school, and Fourth of July celebrations have to do with your networking pitch? More than you might think. In this solo episode, Faithann Basore explores how seasonal themes can make your networking introductions more memorable, more relevant, and easier for others to act on. Rather than giving a generic description of your business, you'll learn how to connect your referral ask to situations people are already thinking about and discussing. You'll hear practical examples for service-based businesses, home services, virtual assistants, health and wellness professionals, and more. Faithann also shares two simple referral-seeding questions that help your network bring you up naturally in conversations without sounding salesy. When you've ever struggled to help people remember who to refer to you, this episode will give you a fresh approach that aligns your message with what's already happening in your prospects' lives. In This Episode: Why seasonal relevance increases attention during networking introductions How to use graduation and moving season in your referral ask Creative ways to connect your business to kids being home for the summer Fourth of July networking pitch ideas and referral opportunities Using holidays and seasonal events as metaphors in testimonials How to position your service as a "vacation from" a common problem Why people refer friends, not salespeople Two referral-seeding questions that make introductions feel natural: "What would it be like if...?" "Have you considered...?" Key Takeaway The best networking pitches don't simply describe what you do. They help people recognize a situation, hear the words a prospect might say, and know exactly how to introduce the idea of working with you. Seasonal themes give you a ready-made way to create relevance and increase referrals. What would it be like to walk into your next networking meeting confident that your pitch is clear, memorable, and easy for others to refer? Book a free 15-minute discovery call to see if a Pitch Strategy Session is the right next step for you. Connect with Faithann Basore Faithann Basore is the founder of The Networker's Tour Guide and Premium OKC Networking. She helps business owners create stronger networking conversations, clearer referral asks, and elevator pitches that make it easier for others to send referrals. Free Resource for Listeners: ✨ Download Faithann’s 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One — a free guide to deepen your networking conversations and leave a lasting impression. Grab your copy here ➡️ https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses. Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook     Quote from This Episode "The best pitches paint a picture of who you're looking for, and the best pitches put the actual words your clients are saying into the pitch."

    21 min

  2. Jun 1

    81: How to Walk Into a Networking Event Alone and Start Meaningful Conversations with Confidence | Featuring Kelly Burton of Boards by Kelly

    Have you ever walked into a networking event, looked around the room, and realized you didn't know a single person? In this episode of Business Networking and Referrals, host Faithann Basore sits down with Kelly Burton, owner of Boards by Kelly, to tackle one of the most common fears networkers face: how to confidently enter conversations when you're attending an event alone. Kelly shares a real-life experience from a recent networking event where the friends she expected to see never showed up, leaving her to navigate a room full of strangers. Together, Faithann and Kelly discuss practical networking strategies that help turn awkward moments into meaningful connections. You'll learn how to identify approachable groups, use curiosity to overcome self-consciousness, give genuine compliments that spark conversation, and gracefully exit conversations when it's time to meet new people. They also discuss the importance of building authentic relationships, networking with competitors, and creating positive interactions that lead to referrals over time. Whether you're brand new to networking or simply looking to feel more confident in unfamiliar rooms, this episode offers actionable advice you can put to work at your very next event. In This Episode You'll Learn: What to do when you arrive at a networking event and don't know anyone How the "Three Question Reset" can help calm networking anxiety How to identify "open twos" and "open threes" and confidently join conversations already in progress How to enter existing conversations without feeling intrusive Why curiosity is one of the most powerful networking tools Conversation starters that create genuine connection How to gracefully leave a conversation and meet new people Why networking is about positive interactions, not immediate referrals The value of building relationships with competitors About Kelly Burton Kelly Burton is the owner of Boards by Kelly, an Oklahoma-based charcuterie board business that creates memorable food experiences for weddings, corporate events, graduations, engagement parties, and special celebrations. Alongside her sister Abby, Kelly has built a thriving business focused on making the event planning process effortless for clients while delivering beautiful, customized charcuterie displays. Resources Mentioned Boards by Kelly: Boards by Kelly Website Instagram: @boardsbykelly.okc Subscribe to Kelly's newsletter, The Gouda Life Listen to Faithann's episode: The Three Question Reset Learn more about the We Rise Conference: We Rise Conference Interested in personalized networking support? Schedule a discovery call with Faithann to explore ways to make networking easier, more enjoyable, and more effective for your business. Connect with Faithann Basore If you're ready to become more confident in networking rooms, strengthen your referral strategy, or develop a memorable introduction that opens doors, connect with Faithann Basore through The Networker's Tour Guide. Free Resource for Listeners: ✨ Download Faithann’s 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One — a free guide to deepen your networking conversations and leave a lasting impression. Grab your copy here ➡️ https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses. Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

    36 min

  3. May 25

    80: Stop Boring Your Networking Group: How to Give Memorable Presentations

    What makes a networking presentation memorable? In this solo episode of the Business Networking & Referrals Podcast, Faithann Basore breaks down how to make the most of those longer networking presentations that happen inside referral groups, networking organizations, chambers, and industry-exclusive meetings. Whether you’re giving a 5-minute feature presentation in a weekly networking group or paying for extra speaking time at a monthly mixer, this episode will help you stop blending in and start creating real excitement around your business. Faithann shares: the biggest mistakes networkers make during feature presentations, why preparation matters more than people realize, how audience engagement changes everything, and why your energy sets the ceiling for the entire room. You’ll also hear a powerful story from Faithann’s time teaching Zumba that completely changed the way she thinks about speaking to groups. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to make your networking presentations more engaging Why your audience mirrors your energy The danger of relying too heavily on slides How to prepare so you stay within your time limit Creative ways to involve your audience during presentations Why storytelling is one of the most powerful networking tools How to describe an ideal referral during a feature presentation Why self-deprecating humor hurts your credibility This Episode Is Especially Helpful For: BNI members Chamber members Weekly networking groups Referral-based business owners Entrepreneurs who get nervous speaking in front of groups Anyone giving 5–10 minute feature presentations Additional Support: Thinking about improving your next networking presentation? If you’d like support creating a specific plan based on your industry, your ideal referrals, and how much time you have to speak, hop on a discovery call with Faithann. This call is designed to help you explore whether a deeper strategy session would be a good fit for your goals and networking style. Whether you’re preparing for a 5-minute feature presentation, a networking spotlight, or a longer referral talk, Faithann can help you determine what kind of support would best help you feel more confident, more prepared, and more engaging when it’s your turn to speak. Free Resource for Listeners: ✨ Download Faithann’s 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One — a free guide to deepen your networking conversations and leave a lasting impression. Grab your copy here ➡️ https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses. Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

    34 min

  4. May 18

    79: How to Recover From Networking Mistakes (Without Damaging Relationships)

    What happens when you make a mistake in networking? In this honest solo episode, Faithann Basore shares the story behind a production mistake in Episode 78—and the important networking lessons it revealed about trust, relationships, and laying a strong foundation over time. If you’ve ever: forgotten to reply to an email stepped on someone’s toes in a networking room or felt embarrassed after making a mistake… this episode will help you move forward with more confidence and grace. Faithann walks through practical ways to build strong networking relationships that can withstand human mistakes—and how generosity, humility, and consistency create trust over time. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why strong relationships can survive small mistakes How to build a networking foundation rooted in trust and generosity The importance of mentors and accountability in business networking Why specific feedback is more helpful than vague advice How to apologize well without becoming defensive When to move on after a mistake—and how to take your cues from others A courageous question to ask when a referral doesn’t come your way Key Takeaways Mistakes don’t destroy relationships overnight. As Faithann shares: “Mistakes are okay, as long as you have a solid foundation and you own up to them.” The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is building relationships strong enough to handle imperfection. Topics Covered in This Episode Finding a mentor How to gradually build mentor relationships through specific, low-pressure requests. Joining a mastermind or support group Why every business owner needs people who can offer honest feedback and perspective. Building a reputation for kindness and generosity How small acts of grace strengthen your networking foundation over time. Apologizing well How to let people fully express hurt feelings instead of rushing them to move on. Handling missed referrals A respectful question you can ask when you thought a referral would come your way. Resources & Next Steps If networking feels overwhelming and you’d like support building a clear networking strategy: 👉 Book a discovery call  Want stronger one-to-one conversations? 👉 Download 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses. Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

    20 min

  5. May 11

    78: How to Make Networking Conversations More Memorable (4 Ways to Build Better Connections)

    What makes someone memorable in a networking room? It’s usually not the person with the most polished elevator pitch. It’s the person who makes others feel comfortable, included, and genuinely heard. In this solo episode, Faithann Basore shares 4 simple ways to bring more delight to your networking conversations so people naturally want to talk with you again, remember you later, and eventually trust you enough to refer you. You’ll learn how small conversational habits—many of them almost invisible—can completely change the way people experience you in networking rooms. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to make people feel more comfortable in conversations Why being a “tour guide” in group conversations builds trust quickly Why bringing interrupted people back into the conversation matters How storytelling makes you more memorable and magnetic A simple phrase that invites deeper, richer conversations How analogies make your stories easier to remember The 4 Ways to Bring Delight to Networking Conversations 1. Be the tour guide of every conversation Catch people up when they join late, reduce confusion, and help everyone feel included. 2. Bring people back in when they get interrupted When someone gets talked over, help them finish their thought. 3. Invite people to tell stories Use phrases like: “I feel like there’s a story there.” Stories naturally create deeper and more memorable conversations. 4. Tell better stories yourself Use analogies and relatable comparisons to make your stories easier to understand and remember. Resources & Next Steps When you’re ready to feel more confident in networking rooms and develop stories that create curiosity and connection: 👉 Book a discovery call  Want better one-to-one conversations? 👉 Download 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources  Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses. Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

    21 min

  6. May 4

    77: Coaching Call: Crafting a 60-Second Presentation That Actually Drives Referrals

    What should you say during your 60-second presentation when you want people to actually recognize and act on referral opportunities? In this episode, Faithann Basore sits down with Lizette Clouta for a live coaching session to build a clear, referral-driven 60-second presentation. Together, they move from a general introduction to a structured, story-based pitch that gives people in the room specific clues to listen for. If you’ve ever felt unsure what to say during your weekly introduction—or like people still don’t “get” how to refer you—this episode walks you through exactly how to fix that. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why your 60-second presentation is not a commercial—it’s a clue-giving exercise How to use a recent client story to create clarity and relevance The importance of a specific referral ask (not “anyone who…”) How to give your network language they can actually use Why repeating the same message multiple weeks in a row increases referrals The Structure of a Referral-Driven 60 Seconds Faithann walks Lizette through a simple framework: Name + Business (clear and confident) Recent client result (testimonial-style) Specific referral ask (who exactly you’re looking for) What they’re saying/feeling (recognition cues) What to say (give your network a question to ask) Clear next step (how to connect you) Repeat your name + business Key Takeaways Most people struggle with their 60-second because they try to explain their business. But your job in a networking room is different: 👉 Help others recognize when they’re standing in the middle of a referral for you Clarity creates referrals. Specificity creates action. Repetition creates results. Resources & Next Steps When you’re in a networking group and want help crafting a 60-second presentation that actually drives referrals: 👉 Book a referral clarity session   When you want better one-to-one conversations: 👉 Download 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources    Connect with Lizette: https://www.thinkdifferentdementia.com/ Share This Episode If a friend or business connection came to mind while you were listening—someone you genuinely want to see thrive—send this episode their way.

    35 min

  7. Apr 27

    76: The 3-Question Networking Reset (How to Walk Into Any Room Ready for Referrals)

    What should you be thinking before you walk into a networking event if you want more referrals and better conversations? In this episode, Faithann Basore shares her 3-Question Networking Reset—a simple, intentional way to shift your mindset before entering any networking meeting or one-to-one. Instead of walking in distracted or reactive, this reset helps you become more present, more curious, and more referable. Faithann explains how a quick pause—right after you park your car or before you walk into a room—can completely change how you show up, what you notice, and the opportunities you create. You’ll learn how to move from “just attending” networking events to walking in with clarity, purpose, and awareness.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why a mental reset before networking matters more than most people realize How to calm your nervous system and become more present before entering a room The 3 questions that help you become more referable in any networking environment How to recognize opportunities for yourself and others in real time Why small behaviors (like communication and follow-through) impact your referral reputation   The 3-Question Networking Reset Before walking into your next networking meeting, ask yourself: Will my behavior today reinforce to others that I’m referable? What opportunities are here waiting for me? What opportunities do I have for others in this room that I just don’t know about yet? When you walk in with these questions in mind, you show up differently—and people feel that. Hop on a discovery call when you’d like support finding more opportunities in the networking rooms you’re already in. Free Resource for Listeners: ✨ Download Faithann’s 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One — a free guide to deepen your networking conversations and leave a lasting impression. Grab your copy here ➡️ https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join Premium OKC Networking — get access to Faithann’s curated networking calendar, community forum, and exclusive trainings. Membership starts at $95/year. Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

    20 min

  8. Apr 20

    75: How to Network in Large Groups: The 1–2–3 Method to Build Relationships & Get Referrals

    How do you walk into a large networking room and know exactly who to talk to—and how much time to spend with each person? In this episode of the Business Networking & Referrals for Entrepreneurs | The Networker’s Tour Guide, host Faithann Basore shares a simple but powerful strategy to help you navigate networking rooms with clarity and intention. This episode introduces the 1–2–3 Method, a practical framework for categorizing the people in the room so you can focus your time, build stronger relationships, and create more referral opportunities. Instead of guessing who to talk to—or defaulting to the people you already know—this method helps you move people from unfamiliar to trusted connections over time.   In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • How to confidently navigate large networking events • The difference between your “ones,” “twos,” and “threes” • Where to spend the majority of your time in a networking room • How to build rapport and create curiosity in conversations • Why familiar faces can actually hold you back if you’re not intentional • How to make new people feel comfortable and create positive first interactions • When to ask deeper questions—and when it’s too early Networking isn’t about talking to everyone—it’s about being intentional with who you talk to and how you spend your time. When you understand how to move people from: 👉 unfamiliar (3s) → familiar (2s) → trusted (1s) you create a natural path to stronger relationships and consistent referrals. 🤝 Community Support Highlight In this episode, Faithann mentions Sarah Golding, who is stepping in to support local business owners affected by the sudden closure of The Painted Tree. If you or someone you know could use guidance, encouragement, or a place to connect with other makers, you can find Sarah here: 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/makersinbusiness   🔗 Resources & Next Steps ✨ Download Faithann’s 10 Questions to Ask in a One-to-One A free guide to deepen your networking conversations and leave a lasting impression: https://www.thenetworkerstourguide.net/resources Connect with Faithann: Instagram: @thenetworkerstourguide Join Premium OKC Networking for $95 for a 1 year access to Faithann's networking calendar, community forum, and networking courses. Join the Private Community: The Networker’s Tour Guide on Facebook

    27 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Learn business networking strategies to build real relationships, get more referrals, and grow your business. Hosted by Faithann Basore, this podcast helps you make the invisible parts of networking visible—like conversations, body language, and connection—so you can turn everyday interactions into real opportunities.

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