As a follow-up on the article from our CEO, Maria Bellissimo-Magrin on what to prioritise when starting up a business, we thought it would be a good idea to delve into the realm of networking in a little more detail so that you can make the most of it in your business.

Networking is a crucial tool for building your business. It is important to always be in the mindset of growing your network; you just never know where your next connection will come from. Networking provides many opportunities and it allows you to introduce your business and its offerings to new people and can present immense learning opportunities. Meeting new people, whether it is suppliers or prospective customers will grow your database and increase your sphere of influence.

After the initial introduction, nurturing this network is important. Staying in touch with your connections means you will stay at the top of their mind. Keep in touch through social media, email newsletters, picking up the phone or even better, meeting-up in person.

Recognising your connections will build the best relationship so acknowledge their achievements. This can be as simple as liking or sharing their social media posts, exposing them to a wider audience. You connections will appreciate this engagement and return the favor; in turn helping you reach a wider audience.

In the fast paced environment that we live in today where social media and technology are constantly evolving; word of mouth referrals are the greatest endorsement your business can receive.

Networking is a large part of our business here at Belgrin; a large percentage of our business comes from referrals. We believe that consistency is the key when networking. What you do today doesn’t affect your business straight away, it usually takes a few months to show.

Our Client Services Manager, Daniel says:

“It is not about who is in the room, but whom they know. People are more likely to ask for a referral from a trusted source (current supplier) and this is where you will get the most results.”

Next week’s blog post will take it one step further. We will talk about partnership marketing and how you can utilise the fruit of your networking labour to form alliances to build your own business.