You’ve settled on a name for your business and have created a basic style for your brand it’s time to make yourself known and network your business. You might be asking how or where do I start? Networking opportunities are all around us and thanks to social media it is now easier than ever! Here are 5 ways to network your new business:
1. In Person Networking
A great tool for finding networking opportunities in your community is Meetup. Meetup offers a wide variety of groups you can attend, so no matter your industry you will find a group for you. I’ve also found that when you attend an in person networking event you are often invited to attend another group. An added benefit of in person networking when you’re a solopreneur is the opportunity to interact with other people and help you avoid any feelings of loneliness.
2. Reach out to like-minded professionals to provide and gain the support of your peers.
I’ve found that one great way of doing this is joining online communities like Facebook Groups. A few of the great groups I have joined are The Rising Tide Society (this group is full of photographers), Savvy Business Owners & Being Boss.
3. Social Media
Social Media is a great way to network. Find the platforms you enjoy most and spend your time on those sites. Don’t just post your photos or statuses, be sure to interact with other users though comments and likes. Don’t be afraid to show off your personality.
My personal favorite is Instagram but I also like Facebook and Pinterest, and have recently joined Snapchat.
4. Don’t Be Shy
When you’re first starting your business, tell everyone about what you do. Now don’t be pushy or annoying but don’t be shy about what you do. You might think you’ve told everyone you know about your new venture but everyone is so busy these days they might have missed your announcement. I’ve found that you never know who can become a customer or could connect you to a future customer.
5. Build a Community
Initially this might be something as simple as a hashtag or could be sending out a newsletter. You don’t have to jumpstart with your own Facebook Group right off the bat! Start simple and build from there!
Where do you spend most of your time networking your business online?
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Love this! All of these things are totally applicable for anyone trying to expand their business relationships!
I think it’s so easy to overlook the small things we can do. I know I do and this was as much a reminder for me as it was for anyone!
Networking is defiantly something I need to work on. Thanks for the tips!
I’m right there with you Nicholas! Running a business can take so much time that I constantly struggle to allow more time for networking even though I know it’s so important!
These are wonderful tips! Having moved my business a few times, I have definitely found these tips to work first hand!
Krista I’m glad to hear it! I love the idea of being a “portable” business but the idea of moving is a little overwhelming. That is awesome you’ve been able to not just move your business once but twice! Way to rock!
These are such great tips! I love networking online but have been wanting to do more! Thank you for the inspiration (and a little kick in the butt) to get going!