We’ve all heard the saying “Rome wasn’t built in a Day” right? Well, neither are successful businesses. When you think of how to build your network, start by asking yourself these 4 questions:
- Who are your clients?
- Where do your clients hang out?
- What do your clients do for work and what do they do for fun?
- Where do you like to hang out?
Once you know the answers to those questions, then you’ll have a clear idea of whether in person or online networking should be priority #1. After that, it’s time to start engaging with your prospective clients in social settings – don’t think of it as networking, think of it as making new friends - because your new friends are the people who are going to become your greatest promoters and supporters. This isn’t fake either – these are genuine people you would like to have a connection with!
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying that you should abandon your current social circles – those are also extremely valuable, it’s just that to develop a new brand, you need fresh influence on that brand. There’s only so many times you can rely on a static group of people for wisdom, inspiration and motivation – the key here is to continue to grow and evolve your personal social networks so that they can benefit you both personally and professionally.
Your Comfort Zone
As many of you know, I also build websites for fitness professionals, I chose this niche because it feels good and I enjoy surrounding myself with strong, vibrant, purpose-driven fitness pros! I could talk planks, burpees and running for hours!
Fitness is certainly my comfort zone – I resort to it whenever I need to “get out there” but do so with less pressure. When I speak with other fitness professionals, I can speak with confidence because I know we have several things in common – even if we cam to fitness from different angles.
When I’m out in social settings, I market my Fit with Flair brand, rather than Simply Jaime because it gives me a frame of reference and frankly I get excited knowing how I’m actually going help someone else accomplish their goals.
Excelling at making new friends
Making new friends is easy for some and not so easy for others. Seek out opportunities that promote your comfort but push you just a bit outside your comfort zone. If you’re young & female, I encourage you to check out Young Female Entrepreneurs - Jenn, the group’s director, is amazing at bringing high-quality and pertinent topics!
