In short, networking can attract new partners, new customers, and even new cheerleaders who will spread the good word about the strengths of your business.
Start With Familiar Faces
If networking with strangers seems daunting and nerve wracking, start by going to friends and family. Discuss your business with them, tell them what you are doing well with and what you are struggling with. This might lead to someone in your circle suggesting you talk to someone else outside that circle who can help further your business.
You could generate anything from constructive suggestions to a long-term business relationship.
Attend Seminars and Workshops
There are countless workshops and seminars designed to help you better understand certain aspects of running a business. Find some programs in your area and sign up.
While attending, greet people in the audience and take time to introduce yourself to presenters and ask questions. Pass out business cards and talk up your needs and what you have to offer other business professionals and potential customers.
Use Social Media
Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn might be the best place for networking, especially if you are not very outgoing and personable. It may be much easier for you to write short notes to people you want to network with instead of shaking hands and shooting the breeze in person.
You can promote your business and meet like-minded people at the same time by maximizing your use of social media. LinkedIn can be especially effective since it revolves around business and employment.
Once you begin connecting with users in a certain niche, both LinkedIn and Twitter will suggest new connections based on those you already acquired.
Talk to Customers
Your customers are not only valuable because of what they pay you after you deliver the product or service you offer. Happy customers, in particular, are extremely important to your business.
Ask all your satisfied customers if they have friends or family to refer to you who could benefit from what your business does. Give them some extra business cards to pass out for you. The fastest and most effective form of advertising is often word of mouth, so this approach might pay off in spades.
Join a Group
If all else fails, join a group specifically designed to help promote healthy networking. The following article explains the five different types of networking organizations:
https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/302630
Don’t forget to share this article on all your social media platforms and ask your followers and friends there what some of their networking tips are. You might end up making a few more connections that way, too.
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