When most business people think of networking, they think of stuffy meet and greet occasions where they are shuffled like cattle from one new contact to the next. While these occasions can be a good way of meeting other people in your community, there are a variety of places to network that may be more personal, more effective, and more efficient. Talking to people who are not just in business, but in business in your particular field can be particularly helpful. You can share information on suppliers and contractors, or simply commiserate about the downsides of your industry. Plus, this means you will truly know your competition, both on a business and on a personal level.
Local and regional groups offer another networking opportunity. These are designed to allow business people from a variety of backgrounds to meet each other. Because you will be mingling with people from different types of businesses, you can make valuable contacts. The people you meet here might be future contacts or even future customers. Getting to know other people in your community gives every business deal a personal touch.
Joining the local Chamber of Commerce should always be considered. Virtually every community has a local Chamber of Commerce and fellow members can be instrumental in helping you strengthen your business's standing in the community. Being known as a community leader in your field provides contacts that can prove invaluable.
If you are given the opportunity, it is always a good idea to support your local arts and cultural events. This is generally very inexpensive advertising for your company, but your name and logo will be in the eyes of many influential and wealthy people. When they have a need for a service you provide, you will likely be the one they consider.
Other avenues for networking can include volunteering in the community, joining a gym, the PTA at your child's school, or even a golf club. Any opportunity for group involvement is a chance to network and promote your business. Always keep a stack of business cards with you wherever you go, in you pocket and in your vehicle. If you are able to present a professional, friendly image, then people will remember you and be more likely to think of you when they need what you're offering. - 2364
Local and regional groups offer another networking opportunity. These are designed to allow business people from a variety of backgrounds to meet each other. Because you will be mingling with people from different types of businesses, you can make valuable contacts. The people you meet here might be future contacts or even future customers. Getting to know other people in your community gives every business deal a personal touch.
Joining the local Chamber of Commerce should always be considered. Virtually every community has a local Chamber of Commerce and fellow members can be instrumental in helping you strengthen your business's standing in the community. Being known as a community leader in your field provides contacts that can prove invaluable.
If you are given the opportunity, it is always a good idea to support your local arts and cultural events. This is generally very inexpensive advertising for your company, but your name and logo will be in the eyes of many influential and wealthy people. When they have a need for a service you provide, you will likely be the one they consider.
Other avenues for networking can include volunteering in the community, joining a gym, the PTA at your child's school, or even a golf club. Any opportunity for group involvement is a chance to network and promote your business. Always keep a stack of business cards with you wherever you go, in you pocket and in your vehicle. If you are able to present a professional, friendly image, then people will remember you and be more likely to think of you when they need what you're offering. - 2364
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