As the chief, cook and bottle washer, you may think that networking is something that doesn't really apply to you. After all, if it's just you running your own business, who do you need to network with? The truth is that networking is essential for any small business owner looking to grow their business. Here are some proven strategies for growing your business through networking as a small business owner.

In-Person Networking

In-person networking isn’t just about attending conferences or tradeshows (though those can be great opportunities too). It’s also about getting involved in local organizations such as professional associations or chambers of commerce in your city or town. These organizations often have events specifically designed for networking purposes where members meet other local business owners and exchange contact information and ideas.

Networking groups are a great way for small business owners to connect with each other and grow their businesses. In most cases, they focus on the exchange of referrals and are designed to help small business owners get referrals to new customers.

Online Networking

The internet has made it easier than ever before to connect with people around the world. LinkedIn and Facebook are just two of the social media platforms available today. These sites allow you to search for potential connections based on location and industry, allowing you to build relationships with other professionals in your area or field. You can also join online groups related to your industry, where members can share resources and advice with each other. Finally, don’t forget about email – it’s still one of the best ways to reach out to potential contacts and start conversations.

Networking Tips

Regardless of whether you choose an online or in-person approach to networking, and I would recommend both, there are certain tips that will help make sure your efforts are successful:

• Be prepared – Have an elevator speech ready that covers who you are, what your company does and why it matters. You should also have some helpful resources or contacts that you can share during conversations, as well as questions that will get the conversation going and show genuine interest in the person with whom you’re speaking.
• Be open – Keep an open mind when meeting new people; don’t judge them by first impressions alone! Don’t be afraid to ask questions or introduce yourself - everyone was once new too! Building relationships takes time, so be patient and don't expect immediate results from any single connection.
• Follow up – Once a conversation ends, make sure to follow up within 48 hours via email or social media so that the connection stays fresh in both parties' minds. Doing this helps keep lines of communication open between yourself and potential partners, which could lead to future collaborations down the road!

Conclusion

As a small business owner, networking should not be overlooked; it is essential for success! Online networking provides access to anyone anywhere, while in-person networking allows members of local organizations to make meaningful connections in their local community. 

With these tips in mind, use both methods strategically so that every introduction counts towards furthering your business goals! 

Good luck!