How to Network as a Small Business Owner

Networking is a great way to gain new clients and contacts. You can create beneficial business relationships that help you learn, grow, and succeed. As a small business owner, you need to know how to grow your network.

7 small business networking tips

Building a strong small business network is crucial for a successful company. To start improving your skills, follow these seven business networking tips.

1. Have a strategy

For many small business owners, networking is enjoyable. But, building your business network is not all fun and games. Approach networking in business with a strategy that helps you reach your goals.

When creating a plan, figure out why you want to network. Are you trying to gain new contacts? Maybe you want to work on career development and learn from business advisers in your industry. You could network to become a thought leader and position yourself as an expert. Or, you might try to be a better leader and motivate your team.

Whatever the reason for networking, set goals to aim for and estimate the number of contacts you will need. Then, identify the kinds of people you need to meet. Review your networking efforts to see what strategies worked best.

2. Write an elevator pitch

An elevator pitch gives the people you meet a quick look at your business. It is a simple but powerful tool if used effectively. Include the following information in your pitch:

• Who you are
• What you do
• The problem you solve
• Who you serve
• What makes you different
• What you want to happen next

Use your elevator pitch for a concise and memorable way to explain your business. When presenting a pitch, you want to be comfortable. Practice the elevator pitch so that it sounds natural. And, make sure the pitch reflects your brand.

3. Be a good listener

When it comes to networking for small business owners, you need to hear what other people are saying. Your peers and potential clients offer insights that help you make business decisions. Show that you’re interested in conversations, and be a good listener.

During networking opportunities, listen more than you speak. Ask open-ended questions rather than ones that require “yes” or “no” answers. After each conversation, make notes about what you talked about.

4. Create lasting impressions

Good first impressions are an important part of networking for business owners. So are good second impressions, and third impressions, and so on. Whether you’re meeting someone for the first time or you’ve known them for 15 years, be courteous and professional.

Be personable when meeting your connections. Even though you’re in a business setting, don’t be afraid to be warm and engaging. Tell a personal story when it’s relevant. Your network should be built on people you want to work with and people who want to work with you.

5. Get involved

Small business owners have the advantage of creating connections within their neighborhoods. A strong network of businesses within a community creates a healthy local economy. You can be a part of your community to help your business and others succeed.

Be an active player in your local business scene. Volunteer and attend local events that give back to the community. Support other small businesses by shopping locally and becoming a member of your chamber of commerce. You can even partner up with another company to mutually benefit.

To network with professionals, attend conferences, host a networking event, or participate in trade shows. While there, don’t hide in the corner. Make an effort to meet people and gain connections through these networking outlets.

6. Have an online presence

No matter the size of your business, it’s crucial to have a presence on the internet. Use online channels to network with potential and existing customers, as well as other business owners.

Social media websites let you participate in ongoing conversations with people in your network. Engage customers through social media by sharing interesting information and details about your business. Users can contact you via social media, ask you questions, and share reviews.

Join online communities and forum conversations that are relevant to your business. Don’t post to sell your products or services. Instead, ask questions to learn from other business owners. And, offer advice when you can.

7. Follow up

As you build your network for small business, don’t wait for new connections to contact you. This is one of the most overlooked networking tips for small business owners. Do a 24-hour follow-up with the people you meet. This will help foster more valuable relationships that don’t immediately fizzle out.

When you follow up, mention some specific points from the conversation. It might be a good idea to write down key details right after the meeting. If next steps were discussed initially, talk about them in the follow-up.

Also, give new connections a way to follow up with you. Create simple, branded business cards and make sure to carry them with you. Business information is an important part of what makes your website effective. Put your contact information on your website, social media accounts, and marketing materials.

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