Tag: networking

Ideas for virtual networking

virtual online networking

This year’s pandemic has changed almost everything about doing business, not least of all networking. Once a mostly in-person social thing, more and more of us are having to find ways to make new connections without leaving home.

An entrepreneur’s network of personal and professional contacts is one of the key factors in success, particularly in the pre-startup period. Here are some ways you can network virtually during the pandemic.

Turn to your existing contacts

Many businesses have had to pivot and adapt since COVID-19 became a fact of life. This means that many of your existing contacts might love to hear from you. There might be a new business idea or a new connection to be made. You may be able to team up to virtually host an event for others. And it’s also just nice to be able to reconnect with someone you might not have spoken to for a while, especially when social events are no longer a viable option. After all, what is networking if not creating relationships?

Change your social media strategy

What social media channels are you using? Are they working for you, or against you? The pandemic is an ideal time to get more involved in social media. After all, many of your existing and potential customers are probably using social media more than ever. Get inspiration from those who have seen success (but don’t copy), or take training that incorporates the latest trends, news, and strategies – companies such as Later offer free webinars and videos full of good social media advice for small business owners.

Investigate virtual conferences

Many industry conferences have been cancelled due to the pandemic, but many have kept going in a virtual format. Some are specifically made for networking, while others are slightly altered versions of traditional programming. In any case, look for opportunities to chat with other attendees or engage on social media conversations around the event.

Reframe your networking perspective

Now that networking events no longer require event space, catering, and a huge budget, there are interesting opportunities available that you can take advantage of. Because everyone is accustomed to virtual events this year, you can extend your networking reach into different regions and even different countries. You may even be able to spearhead industry-specific networking events, whether it’s a small, informal information-sharing session between a handful of people, or a larger-scale, scheduled virtual event. Think of ways you can reach out and get to know people that you might not have been able to before.

Share this post:

4 creative networking ideas for the networking-averse

creative networking ideas for entrepreneurs

Are you an introverted entrepreneur? Do you think networking isn’t necessary in your field? Unfortunately, many small business owners can’t avoid it for long. An entrepreneur’s network of personal and professional contacts is one of the key factors in success, particularly in the pre-startup period. But no matter what stage of the small business lifecycle you’re in now, you’ll eventually need a good accountant, a lead on a qualified intern, or a good word to someone who can get your foot in a new door.

Here are some creative solutions for those who balk at the thought of networking:

Go online.

Yes, we know, social networking has been around for years. You most likely already have a professional Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram account for your business. But are those channels working for you, or against you? It’s never too late to draft or re-draft your social media strategy. Get inspiration from those who have seen success (but don’t copy), or take training that incorporates the latest trends, news, and strategies – companies such as Later offer free webinars and videos full of good social media advice for small business owners. Apps like Mixer are geared specifically towards creatives. In the era of influencers and vloggers, it’s easier than ever before to get connected online.

Scale down. 

When you think “networking,” you likely imagine a large event space with dozens of people milling around, looking nervous. But what if we told you that an intimate dinner of fewer than a dozen people, or an invitation-only gathering in a hip cocktail lounge can both count as networking? Companies like Dent and Mashable have realized that networking in small groups or more interesting locations can make it more appealing to those who get heart palpitations at the thought of traditional meet-and-greets.

Weave your interests into it.

Whether your business is outside of an office environment, or you simply want something different, try incorporating something you already like into your networking. For example, if you’re a freelance programmer, why not join forces with other programmers you know to sponsor a local, weekend-long codeathon for charity? Photographers can hold monthly meetups to visit local galleries and art studios. Do you and one of your long-term clients share a love of fancy coffee? Invite them and a few of their colleagues to a coffee tasting at your favourite roaster – you’ll have fun and the inevitable shop talk will feel natural. Networking can be enjoyable if you attach it to an event you’ll enjoy anyway.

Start something yourself.

Many solopreneurs and those in creative fields often report a feeling of isolation from others in their industry. Does that sound like you? Do you wish more people in your field got together to exchange ideas and information? Well, why not be the one to start it? Many people are surprised at how much more comfortable they are at an event if they’re the ones hosting. They have more control, and usually have a few welcome logistical things to occupy the part of their brain that would normally be feeling anxiety over business cards. By starting your own networking event, you’ll be able to create the environment that makes you comfortable – as well as the other networking-avoiders you may invite!

What about you? Do you have any creative tips for networking you’d like to share?

Share this post:

Small business blog posts we liked this week

This week, we’re sharing some great blog posts we read, ranging from cat photos to cyber security. Enjoy!

Share this post:

Five networking tips for small business owners

small-business-networkingAre you networking-averse? Do you envision a room full of strangers with business cards and panic?

Fear not! Networking is a valuable small business skill all entrepreneurs should hone, but it doesn’t have to be terrifying. Here are five quick tips for pain-free networking:

1) Keep introductions and greetings simple

Don’t feel that you have to dazzle someone as soon as you open your mouth. Just smile, say hello, and introduce yourself. Sounds simple, but sometimes the most difficult part is just getting started. Don’t put undue pressure on yourself to be witty or mind-blowing – that can come later.

2) Network for others

Sometimes, the best networking you can do is on someone else’s behalf. Listen to your customers and other people you meet and do what you can to help them solve their problem or dilemma – even if it doesn’t have anything to do with your business. Even a small act of kindness stands out and people will remember you for it. And when they come across someone who can use your services, you’ll probably be the one they think of.

3) Fake it ’til you make it

Now, we don’t mean fabricate your sales numbers or pretend your one-person business is a global empire. Rather, act like you’re confident, happy, and having a good time at networking events. Smile and be approachable. Don’t stand with your arms folded, and try to make eye contact when speaking. Make the person you’re speaking with feel welcome, and soon you might find yourself having a good time.

4) Be curious

If you tell yourself that the goal of your networking is to make X number of sales, you’ll be putting unnecessary pressure on yourself, and you might even miss a critical opportunity to connect with someone. Instead, approach each person with curiosity. Who are they? What do they do? Why do they do it? Approaching marketing in this way will not only make your connections more genuine, but you might even find a new angle of connection.

5) Branch out

If you’re a photographer, would you network with a plumber? Or a dentist? Or an accountant? We say – of course! Even if you find yourself chatting with someone who doesn’t immediately jump out at you as a potential client or customer, keep chatting. You never know when that dentist will need photos for her website, or when that plumber’s cousin needs a wedding photographer.

Share this post: