As you probably already know, networking is the process of creating a group of diverse, yet like-minded individuals who help one another reach their ultimate goals. When I first launched my freelance writing business, I knew I needed fresh, new ideas that would give me an advantage over my competition. It wasn’t that I didn’t have my own, but I knew that someone – somewhere – would be able to spur my creativity by sharing their successes.
The following are just a few of the lessons I learned in the process, both about how to grow my own business through proper networking, as well as about what others get wrong:
Social Media
One of the most effective tools when it comes to networking is social media. Not only can you effectively connect with potential clients, you’ll also be able to add other companies who can help to boost your business.
In 2014, 92 percent of marketers said that social media marketing had actually improved their business and was important to their success, according to Hubspot and Forbes. That’s huge when you consider that social media is free to use (unless you choose to upgrade and pay to advertise on social media pages). Social media is not a passing fad. When used correctly, it can offer big bonuses to people who take the time and put in the extra effort to do it right.
Learning to use Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn effectively allows you to reach out to potential customers, as well as professional peers. Making the connection, however is only part of the process. For both parties to receive the benefit of the network, an open line of communication must be established so information and ideas can be shared and put into action.
Business-to-Business Communication
Business-to-business (B2B) communication is vital. It’s only after the connection has been made that the networking really begins. Open lines of communication allow companies to share ideas, as well as success stories. True networking require both. Many times, it isn’t just one concept or one idea that builds a business. It is many, developed over a long period of time.
Networking also involves boosting one another’s businesses. If you’re an online presence, you can use your website to share information about other companies. When a business is supported by other businesses, it gives it a validation. By endorsing another business, the clients of a company may also follow suit, giving the business an even bigger client base.
Building Your Network
When you start to build your network, it’s important to realize that the farther out you reach, the more benefits you will receive.
These include:
- Increased brand recognition: The more networking partners you include, the more likely it is that your brand will begin to be recognized. A bigger network results in more recognition and associations with more companies in your inner circle.
- Increased exposure to much larger markets: A large network allows for an increase in exposure. Increasing your exposure through networking helps to also increase your conversion rates. The more people recognize your brand and see your company’s ads and promotions, the more likely they are to try your product or service.
- Higher conversion rates: An effective network also boosts conversion rates. Converting a visitor on your website or store involves convincing them to become a valued, loyal customer. If they find your business through the website of a company they trust, they’re more likely to try what you have to offer.
- Improved ways to track visitors and conversion rates: Tracking lets you know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to marketing. Networking allows you to share information with other companies, which will help boost both visits and conversion rates.
Once you have a solid network established, don’t stop what you’re doing. Keep reaching out. The further you push your limits, the more exposure you will receive. The added benefit is that, while you’re gaining much-needed recognition, those within your network will also be seeing results and vice versa.
I’ve found from personal experience that, once you start building your network, you never really stop. The potential for new connections is ongoing, and as long as you’re willing to make an attempt, the opportunities will always be there. The more connections you include in your inner network, the more resources you will have available to you when you need them.
What step can you take today to establish a new connection? Share how you plan to move forward by leaving a comment below:
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