A quality network is one of the recipes for business success. Now that more people are delving into entrepreneurship and want to run a startup, young entrepreneurs can learn a lesson or two from seasoned business wizards on how to take their new ventures to greater heights.
How can you connect with these successful individuals? Here are seven ways to do so.
1. Leverage Social Media Platforms
You don’t have to look too far to expand your business connections — social media is one of the best platforms to network with like-minded people. Facebook is the biggest channel, with over 3 billion monthly active users, which is nearly half the world’s population. Your best connections and target audience are likely to hang out here.
Search your location, then add “businesspeople” or “entrepreneurs” on your keyword — for example, New York entrepreneurs. Scroll through the results and look for an active group that looks promising. After joining, contribute to conversations and answer questions on posts. Support members and make a positive impression by showing genuine interest in others — this is how you build quality ties.
Find more connections outside of Facebook by trying other platforms, like X and Instagram.
2. Build a Digital Presence on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is 277% more effective at getting leads than other social channels. It’s a different breadth of social media since it’s intended for professional networking. It’s equipped with various tools and helps startups link with the right people. Many use it to expand their career horizons, promote businesses and find mentors.
Many treat LinkedIn as a virtual resume, so optimize your profile by updating the main page with new and relevant professional experience. Remember to include relevant keywords, like “startup founder,” to make it easy for others to find you online.
More importantly, add a note when sending connection requests to make them personal. Introduce yourself, explain how you found them or mention a shared connection. Many decline requests from people they don’t personally know, but a genuine, brief note can sometimes change their minds.
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3. Attend Networking Events and Conferences
If you value face-to-face interactions, networking events and conferences are excellent ways to expand your social orbit.
Leverage your existing network of family members, friends or colleagues and ask if they’re aware of upcoming business conferences within your area. If you don’t get any results, search on websites like Eventbrite and Meetup to display events or trade shows near your location.
Another option is to attend networking events hosted by your local chamber of commerce. Check its online calendar and see if something piques your interest. When participating in events, be ready to pitch on the spot and show others what you bring to the table.
4. Seek Mentorship and Guidance
If you have the resources, investing in a mentor is one of the fastest ways to grow your networks. They’re your ticket to gaining access to quality connections and introducing you to people they have personal ties with who can support you as an entrepreneur.
Mentors also impart critical soft skills. Mentees can develop confidence, learn their strengths and use them to hit their aims in the bullseye.
Where do you find a suitable business coach? Explore your existing network and ask for a referral. Otherwise, search online for thought leaders in your industry and inquire if they offer mentoring. With a bit of work, you can find a reliable person who can help grow your network infrastructure.
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5. Volunteer and Collaborate
Volunteering presents a unique opportunity to boost the network bubble of people who prioritize creating a positive impact in their communities.
The best thing about it is breaking down professional barriers — everyone is equal when on a volunteering site. It allows new entrepreneurs to approach highly successful people without feeling intimidated and use their shared passion as a common ground.
Many volunteering events lead to partnerships, a crucial factor in business success. One survey found that 69% of entrepreneurs collaborate with their networks each month. Consider volunteering programs a part of your strategy. The next person you meet could be the one who catapults your business to success.
6. Join a Country Club
Golf is an enjoyable sport, and many who’ve tried a pay-to-play course ultimately invest in a membership to level up their game and improve their skill set. Besides entertainment, few other sports have a community hub that can teach you different ways to succeed personally and professionally than golf.
A membership may be worth the benefits, as it allows you to interact with well-established professionals who may connect you with entrepreneurs they know to help you build your business. See if this works for you.
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7. Create Valuable Content
Those who’d rather build their network in front of a computer may find success in sharing valuable content, which is a semi-passive strategy for attracting people on the same business wavelength.
What type of content should you post? Publish articles and blogs related to your niche to draw attention and build credibility. Take advantage of online reach and use multiple channels, including websites, social media and ads, to spread the word about your expertise. Results can take time, but doing this consistently gives young entrepreneurs exponential gains that can inflate their network circle.
Your Network Can Help You Succeed
Whether personal or professional, the quality of your connections is crucial to your success. Try these six smart strategies to save time finding the right people to take your business from zero to hero.
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