Who has not heard the story of the gentleman who attended a function with a friend? He had not wanted to go but in the end went anyway. In conversation with his date's father he explained what his field of expertise was and the services he provided his clients. Although his date's father did not require his services he knew someone who potentially might. One seemingly innocent conversation introduced this gentleman to a client who increased his revenue well beyond anything he had expected. Just think of what he would have missed out on had he not gone!
Networking! What better opportunity is there to expand your base of potential clients and gain knowledgeable insight for little cost or no cost at all? The world has become a smaller place to live and do business in with today's technological advances. What did we ever do before fax machines, video conferencing, and the Internet? We think nothing of getting in a car and heading across the city for a meeting of "like minds" who share the same needs, common interests, and thirst for knowledge.
With these rapid technological advances, there are many ways to network without even leaving the comforts of your own home or office. Putting the telephone and fax machine aside, the Internet is no further away than your finger tips are to a computer keyboard. It can pull together people from the four corners of the world who share similar interests and concerns. As well, it is able to provide a wide range of information on topics you may wish to learn more about. Also, what a place to advertise!
Associations are also an exceptional vehicle for networking. Though many small busienss people tend to shy away from networking, it is important to think of the myriad of opportunities it provides. If you choose your functions and associations wisely, you will never be at a loss for what to talk about, nor will you be bored with the conversations you participate in. Why? You have chosen a group whose interests coincide with your own!
Copyright - Kelly Melanson, Certified Management Accountant |