Discovering the Power of Networking

I know from personal experience that networking is part of the reason I am still running a business, even when I have wanted to close the doors completely.

Bold statement but it's true!

I fell into networking naturally but understand that it isn't the case for everyone

At the beginning of my self employed journey I stumbled across #hours on twitter and then discovered that some of these also have in person meetings. From here my networking journey began.

The Impact of Networking on Sales and Supplier Relationships

In short, it has helped me gain sales, find suppliers but more than that it is a support system of like-minded people who understand what I'm going through. Networking isn't just the face to face meetings, it happens everyday online too.

Beyond Face-to-Face: Networking in the Digital Age

Those seemiingly pointless interactions in facebook group, posts etc are also networking. There is a reason that recently when someone asked in Mums in Business International for a Wedding Planner, I was the main person tagged and not just becuase I'm a leader, but because I have taken every opportunity presented to me recently to get known for what I do.

That's the power of networking, helping you to become the go to person when someone needs the thing you do!!!

Becoming the Go-To Person: The Magic of Effective Networking

Quite simply, the only way to get better is to keep doing it. Attend the meetings, interact online and take the opportunities presented to you!

It does take time but the more you do it, the more your confidence will grow. If attending your first in person meeting, particular within MIB, then let the leader know and they will ensure that you're fully welcomed into the group and will also ensure there is a seat next to someone else who will ensure you're included in coversations to help ease you in to the meeting.

Before long you'll find yourself networking at ease and even putting yourself forward to be the speaker, thats when the real magic happens but thats a story for another day ;)

Charlotte
MIB leader for Kidderminster - Mums in Business Int Networking Kidderminster