We’ve all had it drummed into us - networking is important. But do we really ever consider why?
Back in my corporate days, the ‘traditional’ methods of downing glasses of Chardonnay at a bar or a quick nine on the golf course were a great way to get out of the office and schmooze with your clients or service providers.
Now, as small business owners, we need to be more creative. We have less time, less disposable income and more focus on making every interaction count! We need to find alternative methods to connect in a meaningful and beneficial way.
This might be joining a community, such as Green Goodness Co (that’s us!), that holds physical events and workshops, or by joining web-based groups in your particular niche – like you find on LinkedIn.
But what are the real benefits? Here are just a few reasons why we think networking is so important, particularly in small business, and why the possibilities that come with getting skilled at connecting are endless.
- Learn & Grow
Surrounding yourself with like-minded people instantly increases your circle of people to learn from. Networking groups also often offer workshops, seminars or events, just like ours, which are an easy way to upskill.
Green Goodness Co Digital Marketing Showdown
You may not be able to access world-class experts one-on-one, but taking advantage of events where these speakers are presenting are amazing opportunities! Learn form the best, and make the time to discuss your learnings with other attendees afterwards – a simple conversation at one of these events can give you a whole new perspective, or the creative kickstart you need.
- Creating Connections
There’s nothing better in business (or in life, really) than sitting down for a old-fashioned conversation – whether face-to-face or over the phone. So shut down the computer for a few hours and use your communication skills to further your connections with people in your niche… Who knows, you may even make a friend or two along the way.
‘Goodness Goddess Tip’ Some of my favourite business quotes focus on the importance of surrounding yourself with like-minded, passionate people who can help you on your journey:
- Industry Knowledge
If you work from home, you might feel like you’re on the back foot on this one. And, sometimes, that feeling of ‘being out of the loop’ isn’t simply a feeling – it’s a reality. Networking will definitely change this.
Make time weekly for a catch-up with remote staff, a potential lead or someone else in your industry and catch up on what’s going on in the field, on the road or in the news in regards to your area of expertise. It’s amazing what you’ll pick up!
- Career & Business Opportunities
Networking isn’t always face to face -if you’re seeking out a new challenge, strategic partner or even staff member, your first port of call should be LinkedIn.
Set some time aside to go through and add people in your industry or field, if you haven’t already done so. Then explore some relevant groups and start conversation threads with knowledgeable people, and use the platform to position yourself as an expert in your field.
- Strategic Partnerships
Getting to know each other at a GGC Workshop
At the very basic level, strategic partnerships are connections with other people in your field that aren’t your direct competitors. By creating a complementary offering that promotes your products/services to their market and vice versa, you are both potentially doubling your client base. It’s a win win! Read some of our success stories here.
The best place to research these potential businesses is our Green Goodness Co directory, of course. We go by the philosophy that if you are good to others, you’ll get the same in return. Just be smart about the information you give and what you offer.
‘Goodness Goddess Tip’ Before your next networking event, do your research! Are the other attendees in similar or complementary industries for you and your clients? Do people attend just to fan out their business cards and make the most of the free sausage rolls, or are they there to really connect with potential strategic partners?
- Professional Development
The best place to find a mentor is from within a group of like-minded individuals. No matter what stage your business is at, we can all benefit from the advice of someone that has been there and done that. And there’s also no better way to accelerate your professional development. The learnings to be gained from a mentor can be invaluable and you are never too old to have one!
At GGC, we’re all in this together! There are loads of opportunities for us to share and support each other, so there is no reason to go it alone any longer.
Good luck - and if you need any help with making the most of your networking, don’t hesitate to contact Scotty or myself to get some ideas flowing. Can’t wait to hear about all your successes.
Rach xx
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