Tips from the Chamber: Five Key Benefits of Networking
We all know that making new connections is vital to growing your business and increasing exposure. This is why your Chamber of Commerce continues to provide events where networking happens naturally and comfortably in a variety of settings.
Business Networking is a really valuable way to expand your knowledge, learn from the success of others, attain new clients and tell others about your business. Building a successful business takes a lot of time and drive, so it’s good to have a network of friends and associates to draw energy from and keep you going.
Below are some of the key benefits of networking:
Generation of referrals/Increased business. This is perhaps the most obvious benefit and the reason most business owners decide to participate in networking activities. The great news is that the referrals that you get through networking are normally high quality. You can then follow up on these referrals/leads and turn them into clients.
Raising your profile. Being visible and getting noticed is a big benefit of networking. Make sure you regularly attend business and social events that will help to get your face known. You can then help to build your reputation as a knowledgeable, reliable and supportive person by offering useful information or tips to people who need it. You are also more likely to get more leads and referrals as you will be the one that pops into their head when they need what you offer.
Connections. “It’s not WHAT you know, but WHO you know”. If you want a really successful business, then you need relevant connections that you can call on. Networking provides you with a great source of connections, and really opens the door to talk to highly influential people that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to easily connect with.
Opportunities. Expanding your contacts can open doors to new opportunities for business, career advancement, personal growth, or simply new knowledge. Active networking helps to keep you top of mind when opportunities arise and increases your likelihood of receiving introductions to potentially relevant people or referrals.
Advice. Having like-minded business owners to talk to also gives you the opportunity to get advice from them on all sorts of things related to your business or even your personal life and obtaining that important work-life balance.
Upcoming Networking Events:
• Vic Juba Theatre Chamber Connect. Attend a special Chamber Connect hosted by Vic Juba Community Theatre that will take a special Dragons Den format. September 11, 5:00 pm at the Vic Juba Theatre.
• Young Professionals Under 40 event makes building connections and networks easier for the under-forty members with a casual, no-pressure setting. September 26, 5:00 pm at Ernie's Coffee House.
• Speed Networking. Accelerate your networking at this type of event—think speed dating without the awkwardness. Speed networking is an exciting, high impact, structured event that produces exceptional results for participants. Next Event: October 9, 6:30-9:00 pm at the Sticks.
