Networking as Advertising?

Networking has been a big buzz word for the last few years. Networking is the ability to make connections with other people in business and build relationships that can help your business grow.

Here are some bullet points to think about when considering using networking in your advertising mix:

• Low-cost - Many networking and referral groups have minimal annual dues. Make sure you shop around though. Get referrals from other people and visit the group (many groups will let you visit a few times to see if you and your business will be a good fit for the group). This minimal outlay of cash can earn you back many more times than you invested!
• Great way to jumpstart your business - Finding people who think and do business the same way you do will help give your business a boost during a down economic time.
• Look for specific networking groups - There are always specific groups to fit your needs like: women's business groups; referral clubs; local and regional chamber of commerce (these are really great to get your business name out locally); only lunchtime and only breakfast time groups. Start asking around or get on the internet and research your local city websites for more information.
• When you join...JOIN - If you make the commitment to join the group, give it 100% effort: Attend the meetings regularly; Participate on a regular basis (which is often required that you provide a 30-60 sec commercial about yourself to the group); and answer questions and get involved in the discussions so as to establish yourself an expert and trusted name in your niche.
• Honesty is the best policy - Don't make up or "pad" your bio. If you're honest, people will trust you and that's what will help your business in the long run.
• LISTEN! - As I always tell my kids, "God gave you 2 ears and 1 mouth - that means you should listen twice as much as you talk." These are definitely words to live by. If you LISTEN and don't interupt or impose your opinion on others, you will learn so much more and be able to give an informed response :)
• Be unique - I have a friend who always wears interesting buttons to meetings. Inevitably someone makes a comment about the button and he gives it to them right then and there. He's the button-man. Some people have a "catch phrase" that they always use when closing their brief commercial. People always remember them when they attend the same meetings. Some people hand out a uniquely shaped business card - something with rounded corners or printed vertically instead of horizontally. Find something that will help people remember you!

Tip of the day: When getting into networking groups, always remember the GOLDEN RULE! Make sure you treat the other members with respect and conduct business the way you want them to conduct business with you. This true business ethic will give back to you a hundred fold!