There’s a common and well-known saying that continues to circulate around the world, and it’s never been as relevant as it is today.
It’s not what you know; it’s who you know.
Of course, we’re talking about networking. As a business owner and entrepreneur, it’s great that you own your own business, and you’re sure to make opportunities for yourself that enable you to progress and grow, but expanding your inner circles has the potential to create opportunities you may have previously deemed impossible.
Today, we’re going to explore several ways you can connect with other individuals, businesses and organizations, as well as the benefits that these forms of networking can provide to you and your future.
Social Media Networking
While many of us use social media to look at funny videos and keep up with friends, using these platforms as a tool to connect with other entrepreneurs and like-minded individuals can be hugely beneficial to your business.
Sites like Twitter and LinkedIn can put you in direct contact with other people in your industry, allowing you to follow the content they’re posting, as well as having the ability to contact them and communicate.
If you have a question for a CEO, would like to get in contact with a manager of a certain department, or simply want to partner up with another startup, this can all be achieved through social media.
Organizing a Meet-Up
Meet-ups are becoming increasingly common around the world, but the downsides are that they require time and effort to set up. This can be a great idea because you never know who’s going to turn up, and what assets and benefits they’re going to bring to the table.
However, running a meet-up provides a safe and friendly space for lots of like-minded individuals in your area to come and meet each other, sharing knowledge, experience, and connections.
Nevertheless, using a service like Coworking Spaces Bangalore, or another co-working space, can be an ideal way to find a space that has a range of resources at your disposal, as well as remaining affordable to all.
Be a Giver
You will dramatically increase your chances of making connections with people if you’re proactive in sharing what you have and giving things to people who need it. This could be something as small as offering free information or tips to certain social media followers via email.
You could organize an event in which your business helps out and provides a valuable service to your local community, or perhaps even a charity or good cause. No matter how you decide to give, this will open the gates to people wanting to build a genuine relationship with your business, ultimately forming long-lasting connections.
Summary
When it comes to networking, it can be difficult to think outside the box on how you can meet new and beneficial people; especially if you’re tied up managing affairs from your office. However, using the tools and opportunities that are available to you, you’ll be forming deep and genuine connections in no time at all.
