In the world of the
small business owner, networking is recognised as
a vital part of marketing and it’s low cost
too!
People who say they are too busy to network
are missing out.
It’s easy to get trapped behind a desk but
that is how you can miss opportunities. Networking
is an opportunity to increase your contacts.
If you're trying to build a list of people to market
to, the contacts you make are pure gold. Going to
networking events means that:
* You can compare notes with other business owners.
Running your own business can be a bit isolating
and it’s quite comforting to find out you’re
not the only one facing challenges.
* It's a great way to learn about other groups
and events, new skills, knowledge about Legislation,
new suppliers, new products and so on.
* You will develop valuable relationships for your
business, not only prospective clients but also
allies and advisors.
* You can let people know you exist and tell them
what you do, so make sure you prepare what you’re
going to say beforehand.
The most important part of Networking doesn't actually
happen at the event - it's what you do afterwards
that really counts. Make sure you follow up! It
doesn't take long to drop a quick 'nice to meet
you' email. Decide who you’d like to get to
know better and arrange to have coffee or lunch
with them. Find reasons to stay in touch.
Your website domain name (web address) does not have to be the same as your business name, but it should contain one of your major keywords, e.g. networking. Authentic Networking. (03-09-10)
Plan for the best.
Planning for the worst is often discussed in mainstream business but plan for the best - when times are going well how are you using this positivity to propel the business into new heights, how are you using profits and saving for the future. Always plan for the best! Islington Chamber of Commerce. (19-08-10)
Importance of Success
Make sure you offer Quality rather than quantity trust and honesty is a very important part of being succesful The successful man will profit from his mistakes and try again in a different way.
Setting up a business can be done more effectively if you get to know what is out there for free, the one item to pay for is a good accountant before you start, it really does save you money. Most everything else you need in the way of advice and IT start up can be accessed free from the internet and the local Chamber of Trade and Commerce together with Business Link who will provide most of the start up training you need Business for Breakfast. (03-08-10)
Vision
It is easy to start a business and get going without a 'Vision' for your business. A 'vision' is about WHY you are in that business (and it has nothing to do with money: Money is a goal and not a vision)
Vision should drive you in difficult times to keep going and achieve success. Catalyst Network. (29-07-10)
If you believe you can, you will!
For me, business success has come from my own personal growth through personal development and developing a positive attitude - no matter what challenges I have come across. Wings Independent Networking. (29-07-10)
Research the market
Before entering into any business activity it is important to understand the local market, who are the competition, what makes them succesful and why are you going to be different Speed Networking Sussex. (28-07-10)
Networking events
Dont wait until you have started traded before attending networking events. Attending prior to start is a great way of making connections which might be valuable to you when starting up and a great way to get advice from people who have already done it Viva Networking. (27-07-10)
Speak to people
Network, go to meetings with an open mind - aiming to meet new people and build relationships. I network at as many event as I can in Southampton. Try to contribute some sort of help or knowledge and expertise whenever you come across someone new - don't go for the hard sell. If you try to help someone, they will help you in return, it's a natural process. Vary the meetings you go to while at the same time avoiding situations that are draining. You should always end up feeling positive coming away from a network event - do it right, and you will achieve this feeling every time. City Local. (24-05-10)
Look professional by investing in resources
Make sure you invest in good branding, professional business cards and good website design. ANd don't forget to use PR as part of your marketing mix - if you can't afford a consultant just yet, there are lots of DIY guides around. Kelly Stevens (21-04-10)
Add exhibition to your marketing mix.
At the Business Growth Show, when you exhibit, we work with you to identify up to 200 companies or prospects that you would like to get in contact or network with. Suppose you provide that list, our telemarketing people cleanse it and start inviting these contacts to the show, mentioning they should meet you. Then we provide back the list of people that we have contacted and said that they would come. On the day of the show, you meet them in person. And we do that for all exhibitors, meaning you will meet the other ones too and with the magic of networking, it can be very productive. Exhibitors get the current list of registered delegates. The Business Growth Show (18-04-10)
The Badge!
When networking, always wear your name badge on the right-hand side. Why? When shaking hands your eye-line always falls to the other person's right-hand shoulder. Try it and see! 1230 The Women's Company. (06-04-10)
Creating the right impression.
Think of someone who is uniquely successful. Imagine how they look and act. If you want that success, 'walk in their shoes'. Create the aura and image of success. Take care with your outer appearance, be always well groomed, and walk and talk confidently. Create your own brand, and portray that in your dress and body language. Business for Breakfast. (17-03-10)
Follow up on referrals
Many business people don't follow-up on their referrals which is what many people cite as the reason they don't use a suppplier - don't be one of those... 4Networking Brentwood. (05-03-10)
Don't Sell to the room
When going to networking events, don't sell to those in the room, develop relationships and people will want to introduce you to their contacts. Lucy Long (05-03-10)
Do something new.
Doing something outside your usual comfort zone will expand your opportunities and help you develop. 4Networking Southend (05-03-10)
EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE
There's no advertising like personal recommendations made between friends and family. The best way to encourage this type of 'viral marketing' is to provide excellent customer service. Encourage customers to give you a testimonial and put them on your website. The Best of Petersfield. (01-03-10)
