As a small business, it can sometimes be difficult to make connections in your industry and build your reputation. One of the best ways to do so is through business networking.
These are just some of the ways that business networking can enhance your business:
Valuable advice
Networking events are a great place to speak to business owners and executives with years of experience in their industry who can be knowledgeable, reliable, and supportive. Other entrepreneurs offer useful information or tips based on their own experience. Sometimes with excellent advice on smart strategies to build success and sometimes with pitfalls to avoid.
New business relationships
Business networking, gives you the means to expand your network. You can exchange business cards with people who may be potential clients or will recommend you to others.
If you attend regularly you are more likely to meet other business owners who will need your products or services. Swapping details with them will give them the opportunity to contact you (and vice versa) further down the line.
Building relationships with other businesses who can provide you with advice and introduce you to potential new clients is an excellent way to keep your order book healthy.
Raising your profile
The more you attend events, the more likely people are to remember you. As you gain experience in your industry, offering useful information to other businesses or simply meeting people will mean you are more visible and likely to get noticed by potential clients or investors.
Offering tips to people less experienced than you can help you to gain a positive reputation, and many people will connect with you on social media and you’re your online presence.
Find new talent
Networking events are a great place to get good quality recommendations for new recruits. People who attend may not be looking for a new position themselves, but they all know people who are looking for new roles
If you are looking to grow your business and are recruiting for different roles, why not use a networking event as an opportunity to identify people who can help take your business to the next level?
If you are running a small business networking is an excellent way to extend your reach.
Anna Young works at Bells Accountants. For more information contact her on 020 8468 1087 or email enquiries@bellsaccountants.co.uk
