When advising about growing a successful business, many say you need to network; it’s true! 

Networking can help you become more known in your industry/field/community while showing your business’s value. This, in turn, can give you a chance to meet or build connections with others and provide you with more opportunities that would have otherwise been almost impossible to get! 

You could also get new perspectives about your business from your newly made connections and gain ideas about what you could do to improve or grow your business further. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of networking. 

Network From The Norm

Although it may seem like it, you don’t need to attend every networking event. It’s better to choose events or organizations that truly matter to you and your business. 

Think about your passions and which event you would be most motivated to meet new people who have common professional/personal interests. And if you don’t feel ready to attend one in-person, there are many virtual networking events you could also go to expand your professional network.

You don’t even have to attend a specific event or organization to network yourself and your business. You can socialize with others by volunteering, volunteering at community functions like Farmers Markets, or doing anything outside work hours!

Be A Friend, Not A Sales Pitch

Meeting new people is great because you make connections, but you also need to take steps to continue building your relationships. 

When talking to someone new, don’t try to sell them on your business immediately. To someone new, it may seem like you don’t care about getting to know them and just want something. To be engaged, ask questions, and try to get to know them overall. 

You never know, you might make a new friend who could change your life.

Nobody can do everything on their own, and that’s why networking can be so beneficial for several reasons. However, it can seem uncomfortable or nerve-wracking, especially if you’re just started. The best advice I could give you overall is just to be yourself. People want to get to know YOU, so don’t be afraid to open up to others professionally and let others do the same. You will be able to make connections, get opportunities, and so much more when you do.