Building Your Network
Have you ever read a success story where the person goes on and on about “being self-made” and doing it “on their own”? Yeah, it’s just not true.
No one succeeds in business alone.
No one.
There are always people supporting you – whether it be family or friends or co-workers or people within your network of professional contacts.
And while we all know the importance of our family and friends, you can’t dismiss the importance of a professional network.
This group of people is VITAL!
That network can provide you with soooooo many things that your family and friends may not. Throughout my years in business, I’ve worked diligently to build my network – and I continue to do so for these reasons.
Opportunities
One of the many benefits of networking is that it provides opportunities to meet new people. You never know who you might meet and what type of relationship or business opportunity might develop. Networking allows you to expand your reach and connect with more people in your industry – or outside it, for that matter! This can lead to new partnerships, collaborations, and even sales leads.
Advice and Support
Networking also provides access to advice and support from other professionals. When you’re in business, it’s important to get as much advice as possible. By networking with others, you’ll have access to experienced professionals who can share their wisdom and offer guidance when needed. Additionally, if you ever run into any problems or need help solving a problem, your network can be a great resource. (I can attest to this! My network is full of rock stars that provide amazing advice and support!)
You Can Share Your Knowledge and Expertise
Yes, networking is a give-and-take relationship – and that’s what makes it so valuable. When you share your insights and information, other professionals will take notice. They may even reach out to you for future collaborations or projects. Additionally, when you become known as an expert in your field, it can help attract new clients and customers.
Referrals
Networking also provides access to referrals from other professionals. If you’re looking for a specific type of service or product, networking can help connect you with the right people. Your network can be a great source for recommendations for everything from restaurants to car dealerships to photographers and more!
Build Your Brand
Networking is also a great way to build your brand and create awareness for your business. When you attend networking events, you have the opportunity to promote your business and share what you do with other attendees. This helps to increase visibility for you and your work, and can help attract new customers or clients.
Surround Yourself With Like-Minded People
When you join a networking group, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded people who are interested in the same things as you. This is great for your business because it allows you to connect with others who can help support and promote your business. It’s also a great way to make new friends and expand your social circle. (And we all know that sometimes you just need to “talk shop” with others just like you!)
Confidence Booster
The people in your network can also boost your confidence. There is nothing like having a group of people who can boost you up when you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or nervous about your business, your career, or reaching for that next big goal!
So yes, I’m an extrovert – and I love networking – and I love my network – and I want to encourage you to establish a business network of your own. These people can act as a sounding board, a confidence booster, a referral provider – well, the list is practically endless. I’ll be honest – I can’t imagine being where I am today without my network.
Tell me about your network? What good things do they bring to your life? I’d love to hear how networking has benefited you!
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