Its Not Who You Know But Who Knows You . . .

It is true that as a business person, you need to known in your actual community and also your business community. Your competitors, peers, and potential clients need to know who you are and what you do. That is why marketing, branding, and outreach is essential to establish and grow your business.  But what is less widely known, It's also knowing who you need to know.

In business, there are typically some essential connections that need to be made between new business owners and movers and shakers in your community. Who are these essential people for your industry? Do you know who they are? Do you know who to ask? Do you know how to get into their circles? If the answer is "no", that is where you need to start.

Use this list to maximize critical networking skills. Mastery can mean the difference between existing and thriving. 

1. Find our the people you need to know and do your research. Know why they are important and how you can be valuable to them. Become a resource and they will remember your name.

2. Be a great listener. You will learn so much more by listening to influential people than by talking. You may learn the most simply by observing other conversations and learning about other businesses, leaders, and their plans.

3. Meet the most influential people face to face. Emails and calls are nice, but nothing is more intimate and impactful as being in front and center.

4. Find ways that you can make key introductions. Review your own network and determine who can benefit from strategic introductions. That will make you the valuable resource.

This is just a short list on how you need to begin to think about making key connections in your local business and social communities. It is not for fun or convenience, it is essential for your business growth and success. In other words, it is not an option. Go get it!

Want more information? Check out this article.

Happy Networking!