Business Networking
Business networking is used to create opportunities through like-minded people.
The goal of business networking is to build new relationships and thus generate business. It can be more cost effective than other forms of marketing. Social Networking is one form of networking, but offline business networking is often more effective.
People do business with people they like and trust. Like and Trust is easier to achieve in a face-to-face format. That is why professional networking is still so popular among small business owners.
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Tips:
- Get out and talk to people.
- Meet with everyone you know to share what you are doing and ask them for referrals.
- Always think about how you can help the person you are talking with.
- Ask for a business card. Give them one of yours.
- Connect with them online. Ask them to subscribe to your mailing list/newsletter.
Resources: Places to Network & People to Network with
- Chambers of commerce
- Alumni Groups
- Friends and family
- Twitter meet ups
- Career fairs
- Religious groups
- Parents of your children’s friends and classmates
- Neighborhood groups
- Professional organizations
- Networking organizations