Much important networking takes place within the confines of the ivory tower, but for those of you who participated in online MBA programs, this is not exactly an option, so the need to effectively network is even more important. Using your computer skills, you can build yourself a website that will blow people away, all you need to do is hit the streets and give out business cards. Further, remember not to be intimidated, the skills necessary to accomplish graduating from any MBA program are impressive enough. It may be a worthwhile venture to pair your MBA with free coding classes offered by Google. With the networking, business education and coding skills it is impossible not to be seen as a triple threat.
Even in this day and age of hi-tech solutions and web based applications, the network is still one of the best ways to attract new business. Whether offline or online, the network is a valuable tool that all small businesses need to take advantage of.
In the two plus decades of business experience, I honestly can share that the network has proven to be one of the best methods that I use for business development. It has allowed me to make connections and contacts that others will not occur through other marketing and sales efforts.
The network can put you in touch with many different people and enables you to build credibility, gain exposure plus. It can also be used as a way for your business to grow and develop.
Here are some ways you can network and get the Ball Rolling:
On the Web, you can use social media sites and services for free. In exchange for a little time, you get valuable exposure for your business while making connections and building relationships. Online you can build your credibility through forums, blogs and sites that relate to your business or industry. Using online networks as a way to help is the best and informative. Being intrusive will damage your credibility, so be careful with your comments. Remember, you’re looking to build relationships, not tear down the walls.
Networking offline is a great way to get exposure. Once again, you exchange your time for free publicity. As one example, you may volunteer as a guest speaker on a radio program. Radio show often seek a variety of experts to go on the air and answering questions that might callers. You can be that expert. On the radio show, you will answer the questions with confidence and based on your area of expertise related to the topic being discussed. In some cases, you answer the questions to host the event and receive free publicity in return. Radio stations grateful because you volunteered to be their guest speaker, you’ve connected with new people and hopefully the information you shared proved to be valuable for the audience to listen.
On the other offline events, you can also build trust between you and your community. By giving you face your business helps build rapport between you and potential clients. People in general can be exposed to dozens of ads and articles each day, depending on what they read, hear and see. You can use the network to really establish yourself as a competent expert. So look for ways that you can participate in the community both on and offline.
Networks can also be a way to improve your small business because it can keep you in touch with the same individuals. Through the network, you can meet prospects, new business partner, mentor and even a relationship with a successful business owner.
If you are looking for different angles to promote and expose your business then you might consider adding to the mix network. You have everything to gain and nothing to lose.