In a time where so much emphasis is on social media, the personal, face-to-face connections seem to get lost in the shuffle. In order to gain business, our prospects must like us, trust us, and they need to feel we provide a valuable service or product.
Bottom line, it is human nature to want to do business with people you know and like.
How better to get to know someone than to get out there and meet people? You can peruse LinkedIn and Facebook all day long and “make connections,” but aren’t those connections so much more meaningful when you see posts from people you actually have a personal connection with? Social media accents your personal relationships, not replace them. Remember these things when it comes to networking.
- Pick a group to spark your interest. Tone, attitude and goals of the group can help you stay focused and motivated.
- Ask yourself what your goals are so you will pick groups that will help you get what you are looking for. Some groups are based on learning, making contacts, and/or volunteering rather than on strictly making business connections.
- Once you have joined a group, become fully engaged. Attend regular meetings, participate in special events, and volunteer for positions in the group.
To grow your business, you must get out there and network! Put it into your schedule, get out there and meet new people, re-connect with old friends, and learn about other people and their businesses.
Make it a part of your marketing plan. You won’t regret it. Not only will it affect your bottom line, you will come away with a great deal more friends.