A high quality network is one of the recipes for success in business. Now, as more and more people delve into entrepreneurship and want to run a startup, young entrepreneurs can learn a lesson or two from seasoned business wizards on how to take their latest ventures to greater heights.
How are you able to connect with these successful people? Here are seven ways to do it.
1. Use social media platforms
You don’t have to look far to expand your small business contacts – social media is one of the best platforms for connecting with like-minded people. Facebook is the largest channel, with over 3 billion monthly energetic userswhich is almost half the world’s population. Your best connections and target market will likely be here.
Search for your location, then add “business people” or “entrepreneurs” to your keyword—for example, New York entrepreneurs. Scroll through the results and look for an energetic group that appears promising. Once you join, join in the conversations and answer questions in posts. Support members and make a positive impression by showing real interest in others—this builds invaluable connections.
Find more connections beyond Facebook by trying other platforms like X and Instagram.
2. Build a digital presence on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is 277% simpler in lead generation than other social media channels. It is a different breadth of social media because it is designed for skilled networking. It is equipped with various tools and helps startups connect with the right people. Many use it to expand their profession horizons, promote their firms and find mentors.
Many treat LinkedIn as a virtual resume, so optimize your profile by updating your homepage with latest and relevant work experience. Be sure to include relevant keywords like “startup founder” to make it easier for people to find you online.
More importantly, add a note when sending your connection requests to make them personal. Introduce yourself, explain the way you found them, or mention the connection you share. Many people reject requests from people they do not know personally, but a sincere, short note can sometimes change their minds.
3. Attend networking events and conferences
If you value face-to-face interaction, networking events and conferences are a good way to expand your social circle.
Leverage your existing network of family, friends, or coworkers and ask if they know of any upcoming business conferences in your area. If you don’t get any results, search web sites like Eventbrite and Meetup to see events or trade shows near your location.
Another option is to attend networking events hosted by your local chamber of commerce. Check their online calendar and see if anything catches your interest. When attending events, be ready to pitch your ideas immediately and show others what you bring to the table.
4. Seek mentorship and guidance
If you have the resources, investing in a mentor is one of the fastest ways to grow your network. They are your ticket to accessing high-quality connections and introducing you to people they have personal connections with who can support you as an entrepreneur.
Mentors also provide key soft skills. Mentees can develop self-confidence, learn about their strengths, and use them to achieve their goals in a big way.
Where to Find the Right Business Coach? Review your existing network and ask for referrals. Otherwise, search online for thought leaders in your industry and ask if they provide mentoring. With a little work, you will discover a trustworthy one who can enable you to develop your network infrastructure.
5. Become a volunteer and collaborate
Volunteering is a unique opportunity to strengthen your network of people that prioritize making a positive impact in their communities.
The better part is that it breaks down skilled barriers – everyone is equal on the volunteer side. It allows latest entrepreneurs to approach highly successful people without feeling intimidated and use their shared passion as common ground.
Many volunteer events lead to partnerships, a key factor in business success. One study found that 69% of entrepreneurs cooperate with your networks every month. Consider volunteer programs as a part of your strategy. The next person you meet could possibly be the one who catapults your small business to success.
6. Join a Country Club
Golf is a fun sport, and many who try a paid course find yourself investing in a membership to improve their game and skills. Besides the entertainment, few other sports have a community center that may teach you more ways to achieve personal and skilled success than golf.
Membership might be value the advantages because it puts you in touch with established professionals who can connect you with entrepreneurs they know to enable you to build your small business. See if it really works for you.
7. Create invaluable content
Those preferring to build their network in front of a computer can find success by sharing invaluable content as a semi-passive strategy for attracting people with similar business interests.
What type of content must you publish? Publish articles and blogs related to your area of interest to attract attention and build credibility. Leverage your online reach and use multiple channels, including web sites, social media, and promoting, to spread the word about your expertise. It may take some time to see results, but doing this consistently gives young entrepreneurs exponential returns that may blow up their social circle.
Your network can enable you to succeed
Whether personal or skilled, the quality of your connections is crucial to your success. Try these six smart strategies to save time finding the right people to take your small business from zero to hero.