Networking tips for small business owners.
As a small business owner, what do you do to raise your business’s profile?
Our clients work with us to help build their brand and develop marketing strategies and programmes that drive growth. We always ask them about their networks; who do they interact with on a professional basis to spread the word about their business and discover new opportunities to help their company grow?
For example, VerveIQ is a long-standing member of the Data & Marketing Association. While not specifically a networking group, it’s a fantastic community of marketers that can help raise our profile, build our personal networks and connect with potential partners and talent.
We’re also members of local networking groups. There are many great forums and groups you can get involved with; from growth hubs at local enterprise partnerships to regional chambers of commerce.
Start investigating (step 1 below) which networks could boost your growth efforts by connecting you with potential customers, suppliers and partners.
7 ways to boost your networking skills
The word “networking” may send you running for the hills but there are some huge benefits to be gained from it – especially for small businesses.
When done correctly, networking can be a solid way to build your network and generate leads. So, here’s seven simple ways to get the most out of networking:
Research: Look into your local networking groups and try them out for size. There will be various groups with different kinds of people and businesses, you need to find the group that suits your business the most.
Mind-set: Networking is a long-term investment of your time (and sometimes money). It is about taking time to build mutually beneficial referral networks and connections who support what you do. The more time and effort you can dedicate to it, the more you will gain. If you don’t have the right mindset (long-term rather than overnight) then it is not going to work.
Preparation: When you attend a networking event, have your elevator pitch ready (a short description of what you do and why it is important). Also have a think about what you want to get out of the event and what kinds of businesses you would like to align with.
Follow-up: Make sure you get in touch with the people you meet that you think would be a good connection for you and your business. Send them an email. Connect and engage with them on LinkedIn.
Refine: Spend time learning about businesses that align best with your business, thinking about how you can help each other to grow. Arrange 1-2-1 meetings to have more in-depth conversations. This is where you will start building longer term business relationships.
Repeat: Try to attend regular networking events to build momentum and relationships.
ROI: If a particular networking group or forum isn’t working out ask yourself “why?”. Is there something that you can do to make it work? If not, try a different group.