Here are a few networking tips for small business owners:
Set Networking Objectives
To maximize your efforts, sit down and think about why you want to expand your network. Do you want to recruit new talent to join your team? Do you want leadership skills development advice? Maybe it would be nice to talk through how to solve common issues with another small business owner in your field. No matter what you want to achieve, it is important to target your objectives.Perfect Your Elevator Pitch
When you’re speaking with people about your business, it’s helpful to have a concise and catchy blurb. Whether you are talking to community leaders or potential clients, it’s essential to represent your business well. In your elevator pitch, make sure you include who you are, what you do, and what makes your business different. Most importantly, make sure you represent your business passionately; passion is infectious.Find more tips to craft your elevator pitch here.
Establish an Online Presence
Like it or not, social media is here to stay. An exorbitant amount of people’s time is spent on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, to name a few. There is ample opportunity to network, and maintain connections, with peers and colleagues online. By posting about your business and new opportunity, you dispense information about your company and push your brand a little further. It also helps to get creative.
Talk, But Also Listen
While networking, it’s easy to get carried away about your objectives and mission—and that’s important. It’s also important to lend an ear to your peers. Not only is it polite, but other small business owners are a wealth of information. Networking is as much about learning and expanding your knowledge base as it is about furthering your business.Follow Up
If you have a meaningful conversation with somebody, it’s acceptable to follow up the next day with a polite email. If you both connected and had a productive conversation, they will want to hear from you. Reaching out – while it might seem uncomfortable – is flattering, not pushy. The other person will appreciate the thought and follow through. Following up is a good way to start maintaining the relationships you are forming. Follow-ups can turn a networking event into an established professional relationship.Join the Sartell Chamber
It’s easy to get involved and join the Sartell Chamber. We pride ourselves in providing quality networking opportunities – where we would love for you to put these tips to work. Get involved by joining an event committee. We have five with spots open in each. You can also become an event sponsor, volunteer at an event, or simply attend one of our events. By sponsoring a monthly meeting and buying lunch for our members, you receive 20 minutes of presentation time.There are so many ways to get involved and to start networking now. A year from now, you will wish you would have started today!
