No one wants their small business to stay stagnant. Networking can lead you to new opportunities you wouldn’t have thought of on your own. As the saying goes, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” and that can take your small business from local staple to industry pillar.
Where to Network with Small Business Owners
Online networking may be the most accessible form of networking. The possibilities are endless with the people you could meet.
Social media. Use your social media platforms to find other professionals. Social media direct messaging is also a conversational way to make that first connection. Keep communication open by engaging in their content.
Network-specific platforms like LinkedIn are specifically designed for you to post business related updates and achievements. On LinkedIn, it’s also essential to share and comment on other people’s posts as you form and strengthen your relationships.
In-Person. If there are in-person opportunities in your area, human interaction at industry-specific events builds trust and makes a deeper connection in comparison to on-screen meetings.
Get involved in local events that are taking place within your industry and your local business community. This could be tradeshows, conferences, seminars or joining your local chamber of commerce. Sign up for mixers and attend panels where you can learn more about industry standards you could put into practice.
How to Network with Small Business Owners
Networking is as easy as an introduction. However, the opportunity for the introduction is entirely up to you. Effective networking can only occur when you are proactive in your approach.
Come up with a plan. What are the things you want to achieve by attending that event or sending a direct message? Identify your goals before entering a space. This will give you a clearer idea of the conversations you want to have.
Develop an elevator pitch. An elevator pitch is a clear and concise introduction about yourself and your small business that is only 30-60 seconds long—the length of an elevator ride! Your elevator pitch should include a summary of what your small business does, your goals for the conversation and a call to action.
Offer your knowledge. You are an expert in your industry after all, and other professionals want to learn from you as much as you want to learn from them. An exchange of knowledge between you and a new connection could help others improve strategies, standards of practices and new trends.
Networking is a great way to meet new people and small businesses. It offers increased visibility to your business, new connections that could potentially serve as partnerships, deals or mentorships. It’s important to keep an open mind about any opportunity that presents itself.