Question 6:
How do I use networking to grow my business?
Trick 6:
Yes, networking is still one of the most powerful ways to grow your business.
But the good thing is if you are one of those business owners that dreads
networking, dread no more because the internet is here and is slowly
catching up to in-person networking.
Before we go into the types of networking, I want to point out that
networkingmeans“makingconnectionswithpeople”From partnerships to
strategicalliancestopreferredvendors,it’s“whoyouknow”thatseemsto
play an important role in growing your business.
In-person networking is still very important and can not be underestimated in
this age of dominating social networking sites. It still pays off to get out there
by attending Chamber of Commerce, BNI or Association events and meetings
or going to industry related training seminars.
When attending these meetings be brave enough to get out of your comfort
zone and approach people you do not know yet. And remember you are not
there to hard sell because that would be the quickest way to repel people
whodon’tknowyou just yet. Be yourself and talk about how you add value to
the market place.
For the internet side of networking, I know it can get overwhelming
sometimes so let me try to give you a quick overview of what is out there.
As mentioned, the social networking sites used most frequently to market a
business are: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.
When using these sites to promote your business remember to not get too
sales-ey instead focus on what value added information you can provide
readers. It is all about building trustworthy relationships with prospective
clients. Think in terms of what you can share with your target market to make
their life easier and relieve any pain or frustration.
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