Why Networking Is A Must For Small Business Owners
When starting off in your small business it's easy to get caught up in all the different activities that you are suppose to be doing and lose sight of the big picture. The picture of getting others to know what your business is all about. Without prospects, there are no sales, without sales there is no business, however you don't have to rely solely on yourself to get prospects.
Being a great networker is a key element to having a successful business and getting your message out to the wider community. You can only know so many people in your circle of influence, so imagine if you could get into other peoples circle of influence to generate even more leads. Well that is what networking does.
I believe that every small business owner should attend at least 1 networking event per week. This gives them an opportunity to meet upwards of another 10 - 50 people in business and discuss opportunities that might benefit their business down the track.
Networking whether it be online or offline is all about making contacts and forming partnerships. Business owners that are open to such opportunities will always prosper. All businesses are linked in some way. A graphic designer needs assistance from web developers and vice versa, they both have the same sort of cliental so therefore it becomes an easy referral to give. There are these relationships all over the place.
Imagine if you had another 15+ people who you met at networking events on your team passing business to you. What would that do for your business?
There is an art to networking and it starts with the mindset of 'giving'. Most small business owners when networking are worried about what's in it for them. They charge around the room trying to meet everyone and making sure that everyone has their business card. We see it all the time. My question is, just because someone has your business card does that mean they'll do business with you? Simple answer 'NO'
People only do business with others that they know and trust. When you go to networking events concentrate on building 3 or 4 great relationships that you can follow up with and form a partnership with in the future. This sort of networking will provide far greater results long term than trying to see everyone.
Try different types of networking events rather than always the same sort, you get different crowds at different events. There are structured events like BNI or Chamber lunches plus there are many informal and fun events like speed networking nights. The key is to experience as many as possible to see where the right crowd is for your type of business.
Social media provides an easy avenue to network online. Being able to build relationships, offer help and build trust can know be done through a click of the mouse. However the same principles apply through this type of networking as in face to face opportunities, you must have the mindset of giving to attract people to you.
Expo's and conferences are again another great place to meet people with similar interest to network with and are often worth attending just for that very reason.
No matter what sort of networking you do, it's important that you are attending and spreading the word about yourself and your product and service.
About the Author
Michael Griffiths is the small business marketing guru, providing lead generation and marketing strategies for small business owners. Get your free marketing resources when you visit http://www.mysmallbusinessmarketingguru.com.au
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