Networking is the most cost effective way to promote your business. It's the perfect combination of marketing and testimonial endorsement. And most people know that networking can lead to more sales. When someone refers you to a friend or colleague, you arrive with their endorsement and they marketed you for free. Which is one of the best reasons to network your butt off, especially in the beginning of a new enterprise.
When you begin your networking efforts, be certain to try several different venues and groups before you join any group. Only after you have evaluated the potential connection value from each group should you decide to choose one over another. Be certain to join at least one chamber of commerce and one other business networking organization and attend regularly.
Begin building a reputation as someone who is known, liked, and trusted by giving leads and referrals to the people you meet. In time they will reciprocate. Be patient but persistent in your participation. Attend regularly and bring plenty of leads and referrals from your network. It will pay off in new business and greater connections. And while the new business is essential to your livelihood, what most people fail to realize is that networking is the best way solve business problems as well.
Consider your new business. You have grown to the point of needing someone to answer the phones and do some clerical work for you. Through networking you can eliminate all the screening of potential new hires and interview just a few pre-qualified candidates.
Perhaps you are facing a challenge with an employee. You could ask the Department of Labor or other governmental agency for help or you could seek advice from your trusted network of peers. Chances are one of your peers has been through what you are going through and you can save yourself countless hours and dollars by learning from their experience.
Maybe you are considering launching an advertising campaign. You could sit through hours of advertising sales presentations or you could lean on the experience of your network to lead you to the right decision.
These are just a few of the valuable benefits you will gain by networking your butt off. Develop this discipline now and you will always have plenty of trusted resources and pipeline filling referrals.
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