Most small businesses grow through word of mouth. Networking puts you in front of the people who can send that word your way: other owners, suppliers, advisers and community leaders.
It does not require being outgoing. It requires showing up regularly, being helpful and following up.
Join the City Chamber of Commerce
Look for chamber events, industry groups, local business associations, community organizations and online groups for local businesses. Pick a few and attend regularly rather than trying everything once.
Think about who serves the same customers as you without competing. A wedding photographer and a florist, or an accountant and a lawyer, can send each other a steady stream of referrals.
Have a short, plain answer to “what do you do?”: who you help, what you do for them, and one example. Then ask about the other person and listen.
The aim of a first conversation is not to sell. It is to find a reason to talk again.
Introduce people to each other, share useful information and send referrals when you can. People remember who helped them, and they tend to return the favor.
Be specific about what you are looking for, too. “Restaurants opening a second location” is far easier to refer than “anyone who needs marketing.”
Most networking value is lost because nobody follows up. Send a short note within a few days, mention something from your conversation, and suggest a next step such as coffee or a call.
Keep a simple list of contacts, where you met and what you discussed, and check in every few months. Relationships grow through repeated contact.
Connect with new contacts on LinkedIn soon after meeting them, with a short personal note. Comment on their posts and share useful articles from time to time.
Local business groups online are a good way to stay visible, answer questions and spot opportunities.
Note where each new customer or referral came from. After a few months you will see which events and groups are worth your time.
Thank the people who send you business, and tell them how it went. It strengthens the relationship and encourages more referrals.
Go with a simple goal, such as two good conversations, ask questions and listen. Smaller, regular events are often easier than large ones.
A business that serves the same customers as you without competing, so you can recommend each other.
Within a few days, while the conversation is still fresh for both of you.
Yes, especially alongside in-person contact. LinkedIn and local business groups are good places to stay in touch between events.
City Chamber of Commerce membership includes networking across our city chambers, a business listing and marketing across twelve channels.
Join the City Chamber of Commerce