Businesspersons of all stripes need to make contacts for their operations to soar. The right connections make a world of difference. Entrepreneurs should take advantage of every opportunity to forge relationships with possible allies. Here are some that every business owner ought to try.
Maintain Current Friendships
You already have a host of people who are part of your life. Even if they walk paths thoroughly unrelated to your venture, it pays to stay in touch. You never know when one of these individuals could introduce you to an important client or critical vendor. Keep lines of communication open with friends and family, but don’t forget about former classmates and neighbors, people who attend your place of worship, and those you’ve hired in non-business capacities. Anyone you know could bring you good fortune.
Get Onto Social Media
In addition to reaching out to people from your past and present, the internet accommodates the discovery of future friends. On Facebook, for instance, there are groups focused on virtually any topic. Look for ones associated with your interests and sign up, then start contributing. LinkedIn is a job-oriented platform better suited for spreading news of your accomplishments. Others might recognize your abilities and decide to reach out in hopes of forming a partnership.
Start Speaking Up
Online platforms are often unrestrained zones of animosity and noise. Getting heard above the crowd can be a challenge. Another way of reaching others with news of your business is by doing interviews with interested outlets. Podcasters are always seeking unusual guests. See if you can get onto a podcast with an interest in your area of expertise. You may also solicit the attention of establishment media. Hiring a publicist could be the best way of getting your foot in the door. Alternatively, create a website to call your own and try making your articles go viral.
Provide Mentorship Services
Another tactic is teaching others about your field. Allow eager faces to absorb some of your hard-fought knowledge. Bring several into your fold as interns and put them to work. Maybe you’re unwilling to make the sort of commitment that comes with that arrangement. Instead, spend an hour speaking with interested persons, whether over coffee or Zoom. Give a presentation at a local college or trade association. A little bit of attention can generate large amounts of goodwill. In turn, this should get others talking positively about you.
Entrepreneurs must use each avenue at their disposal to build their business networks. Increase your professional contacts by incorporating as many as possible into your arsenal.
