Networking 101
People do business with whom they like, respect, and trust. This simple fact makes it easy to understand why networking is such an important part of business. The singular task of networking allows your business the opportunity to grow before any added actions. Have you ever heard the saying your network is your net worth? Well, this couldn’t be any more accurate.
You can have excellent services, but if no one knows about them you’re starting at a disadvantage. Sure. You want to have great services and customer service as well, that’s how you get repeat business. However, never underestimate the power of a referral or being connected. A community is a powerful thing for a start-up or small business because the community can support your source of income and encourage its growth. Therefore, its essential to find a community in which you can comfortably engage and participate in.
Sometimes transitioning to actively engaging in a community if you’re an introvert or new entrepreneur can be uncomfortable and that’s okay. You don’t have to take on every project or comment on every topic. Keep in mind you don’t have to be perfect, every person you encounter will likely not be a customer. However they have the potential to become one or send you one. If you’re having a hard time engaging with people on a business level meet them at a human level.
Make sure your presence is known to someone. Start off engaging and introducing yourself and business with just a small number of people if that’s what it takes. Over time challenge yourself to increase that amount even if it’s in small increments. Your business will see progress in brand awareness that way. Eventually the task won’t cause you the anxiety it once did. You’ll build the confidence to network and promote your brand. Confident and comfortable is where you want to be in networking. Those who achieve this undoubtedly see the difference in their brand awareness and bottom line.
If you don’t know where to begin with networking, you can possibly find an entrepreneur mixer on social media that’s being hosted near you or not too far. There are associations within your local chamber of commerce. Additionally, you can also look for groups that are specific to your industry, culture, or gender among other things. Now take action, grow your brand, and get connected!
