Networking is a useful tool for promoting your company. Using networking, you can seek out those who need what your business has to offer. Networking and relationship-building allow clients to get to know you better and trust your business more.
When networking, it is important to go out of your way to meet new people! While stepping out of your comfort zone to connect to people can be tough, using icebreakers and being friendly can help get conversations started. Try not to be pushy in these conversations, but instead be an active listener and a service to the people you meet.
Some ideas for icebreakers might include:
- Asking about their businesses.
- Trading on how each of you got into your business.
- Inquiring about personal things like interests or hobbies.
- Talking about family and friends.
- Sharing possible common interests.
- If meeting at an event, discuss the speaker or event.
Use and give referrals to expand your network. When building relationships with customers and clients, giving and receiving referrals can help strengthen your relationships. Customers with positive reviews and testimonials about your business or services can be essential to growing your clientele. Referrals are a networking-heavy approach to advertising, where your existing clients and customers positively recommend your company. You want your clients to refer you based on the experiences they have with your business, the reputation your business upholds, and the area your business specializes in.
A good place to network, as well as give and get referrals, is the Show Me Business Builders meetings. These meetings occur every Wednesday at 7 am at Logues Restaurant in Hannibal, Missouri. We would be happy to see your business join!
Need a little help to get started, or would you like us to train your people? Contact Poole Communications at 573-221-3635.
