Networking for Small Business Owners

Networking for small business owners involves getting together with other business owners who might serve as referral partners or become clients for your business. Networking groups can range from leads groups, which focus on providing referrals (a.k.a. "leads") to one another during each meeting, to more informal gatherings that meet to learn more about business-related topics and form connections with other business owners, which may or may not lead to working relationships. Regardless of whether you use networking to get paying customers, networking events can be a great way to meet like-minded business owners.

• 1

  Determine your goals from networking. If you're looking to gain business-growth information and get to know other business owners in an informal setting, a networking group such as your local Chamber of Commerce might be just what the doctor ordered. They have plenty of educational events, along with opportunities to connect with other Chamber members in a low-key environment.

  If, however, you are looking to gain new business leads quickly, a business leads group such as Business Networking International (see Resources for link) might be more your style. In these action-oriented meetings, members must provide leads (or referrals) to other members. It's a great way to get leads for your business, but keep in mind that there's a give-and-take here that you must participate in.

• 2

  Visit several groups to find the one that is right for you. Not sure whether the Chamber or Business Networking International is more your style? While most networking groups charge a fee to participate, you can often visit one or even several times before paying.

  Take advantage of this trial period to see which group seems to fit with your business needs and personal style. Ask yourself during each visit whether you feel comfortable interacting with the other members, whether the group leaders made you feel welcome, and whether you feel this environment would be an asset to your business.

• 3

  Join your favorite networking group(s). After you narrow the networking groups on your list down to a handful of options, join one or two of your top choices. Fill out any required application forms, pay the applicable fees, write the meeting times on your calendar, and make the commitment to participate as much as possible.

• 4

  Make the most of your networking group membership. Interact with other members, giving as much helpful advice and/or as many referrals as you can. Follow up with leads you've been given quickly and courteously (treating those referrals like gold so the referring business owners will continue to refer business your way). Attend educational events and take advantage of whatever other resources are made available to you.