Joining a Small Business Networking Group - Is it Worth It? | The Communication Blog

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Joining a Small Business Networking Group - Is it Worth It?

By Barbra Sundquist


If you run a small business, you may think that networking is a waste of time. In fact, joining a small business networking group might be the best thing you ever did for your business success.

Why am I such an advocate of small business networking groups? The answer is simple: as you help others, you help yourself! The point of small business networking is not just to tell others about your business. It's also to find out how you can help them.

You see, the thing that people dread the most about standard "meet and greet" networking events is the feeling that you have to "sell" yourself to people who may not be interested in hearing about you and your business. That's where joining a small business networking group is so helpful: the whole point of the group is to tell each other about your respective businesses and see how you can help each other with referrals. So you get to network without feeling like a pushy salesperson. What a relief!

Another advantage of joining a business networking group is that you have the ability to promote yourself directly to other local businesses who may need your product or services. And even if they don't directly hire you they may be able to recommend you to someone else.

There are a lot of people who really enjoy their regular networking group. They even say that it is the most productive meeting of their week. What are the things it can do for you? To name one, a small business networking group can get you referrals to local prospects. It can provide exposure to your business as as exclusive member in your particular field. And finally, a networking group usually offers you group advertising discounts, business educational seminars, and lots of useful new ideas

Even considering all the advantages, many small business owners are still put off by the idea of networking.

So do you really have to network? Let's put it this way: you need to let people know about your business and a networking group is one of the best ways to do that. It's a way to let people know your business. If nobody knows about it, your business won't be successful. That's why networking is so important.

The good news is that networking groups can actually be fun, as long as you choose a small business networking group that suits you and your business. Consider joining a networking group -- you'll be glad you did!




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