Networking Secrets for Female Entrepreneurs: How to Build Your Local Network Organically
Jun 03, 2024
As I write this blog post, we are wrapping up our 6th round of Anti-Social School, and graduation is this week! We've had over 100 students go through this program since we launched it, and my FAVORITE activity that comes out of all these workshops is the power of organic, local networking. Hands down, the easiest way to make an impact and a profit is to connect with those you know. But the icing on the cake is when you can do it in person. It's like the fast pass lane at Disney World: skip the line and get right to the ride.
Why Organic Local Networking Matters
Organic local networking is all about building genuine relationships with other professionals in your area, outside of a forced or sales-driven environment. It's about connecting, collaborating, and supporting each other's businesses through authentic interactions.
Benefits of Organic Local Networking
Here are a few reasons why organic local networking should be on your radar:
- Increased Brand Awareness: By putting yourself out there and connecting with others, you're raising awareness of your brand and what you offer.
- Potential for Referrals and Collaborations: When people know, like, and trust you, they're more likely to refer you to their network or explore collaboration opportunities.
- Access to Valuable Resources: Through networking events and conversations, you can discover valuable resources like industry insights, potential partners, or even new clients.
- Building a Strong Support System: Surrounding yourself with a network of other entrepreneurs can be incredibly motivating and supportive, especially when you're facing challenges.
Steps to Building Your Organic Local Network
1. Identify your ideal connections
Example: If you're a wedding planner, reaching out to local florists, photographers, and caterers can create a robust referral network. These connections often result in cross-promotion and shared client bases.
2. Attend relevant events
Look for local meetups, workshops, conferences, or industry gatherings related to your field. Honestly, as an introvert, this one makes my heart skip a beat a bit. Every time I attend an event I make a goal: introduce myself to three people. That's it. The fun part about this step in networking is it fuels #1. You never know who you are going to meet and what it might lead to.
3. Join local business groups
The Power of Being a Connector
Finally, I love a good saying to help you remember the power of this strategy. Be a connector, not just a collector: Focus on building genuine connections. Offer help, share valuable resources, and be someone others can rely on.
Sometimes it's not all about how to get new clients, but WHO you can introduce. Be the connector. Be the one who introduces your friends to the new best friends they need and help their business skyrocket. I am a huge believer that there is enough to go around for everyone and this beats slimy sales tackets any day.
Example: Suppose you meet a graphic designer and a web developer at different events. Connect them. They could collaborate on projects, benefiting both their businesses and yours as a trusted connector.
Challenge Yourself: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
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About the author
Holly Haynes is a business strategist who loves a good plan and flow chart. She is crazy passionate about teaching women like you how to build your dream job and scale to 6-figures without sacrificing your weekends or priorities.
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