Small Business Networking: Your Guide to Success

Beyond the handshake and the elevator pitch, small business networking is about building a community. It's about connecting with like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. This article explores the often-untapped potential of small business networking, revealing how it can lead to unexpected collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and even new revenue streams. We'll share practical tips for making authentic connections, following up effectively, and turning networking events into a catalyst for growth.

There's a reason companies spend time networking. Whether at local events or national conferences, most business events include time for networking. The reason is simple: networking helps businesses of all sizes. If you're a small business owner, here's why networking should be an important part of your overall marketing strategy and some tips and tricks for leveraging the time you invest in networking activities. 

Key Takeaways

• Networking fuels small business growth: Connecting with other business owners offers learning opportunities, potential collaborations, and fresh perspectives for expanding your offerings. Make networking a regular practice to build a strong foundation for your business.
• Digital tools streamline networking: Use a digital business card to simplify contact sharing and capture leads efficiently. Integrating with your CRM system helps manage your growing network and nurture valuable connections.
• Genuine relationships are crucial: Focus on building authentic connections by actively listening and showing genuine interest in others. Follow up after events to solidify relationships and foster a supportive professional community.

1. Learn From Others With Similar Goals

Networking is an opportunity to save time. When you get together with other small business owners, you're able to exchange ideas on everything from choosing a new POS management system to finding a good photographer for product photos. 

Whether you are exploring changing restaurant POS systems, seeking a skilled photographer for product photos, or looking to connect with a local college's internship program, you'll find a wealth of information from your local business community.

Formal networking groups often offer a regular meetup where there's time to mingle, a presentation and then more time for networking. You'll learn from an expert with experience but also connect with others in your community. Share your pain points and solutions, and others will, too!

What Small Business Networking Groups Should I Join?

Start with your local Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber is a membership-based organization made up of business owners.

Dues pay for staff that advocate and consult on your behalf, host mixers and more.

You may think this is a social event, but mixers are usually hosted at local businesses. That means you can sponsor an event and get people in your door. Show off what you do, your space and your knowledge while building connections.

Chambers often provide benefits pools, which allow you to offer competitive perks to employees helping with attraction and retention of quality staff.

Finally, chambers offer training, access to grants and send out regular updates on legislative and other business news that's important to stay on top of.

National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE)

The National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) offers resources designed for self-employed individuals and micro-businesses. Members access valuable support, including advice on business law, healthcare information, and tax management. The NASE also connects members with small business grants and scholarships. A digital business card, like Popl, can help you organize your new NASE contacts.

Business Networking International (BNI)

Business Networking International (BNI) is a global organization focused on referral marketing. BNI provides a structured networking environment, helping members build relationships and share referrals. This group is especially helpful for service-based businesses. Find local chapters on their website and connect with professionals in your area. Sharing your Popl after a BNI meeting is a great way to connect.

Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO)

The Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) is a global peer-to-peer network with over 17,000 members. This organization offers mentoring, online networking, and local/regional meetups. EO has various chapter options, including local and bridge chapters, serving entrepreneurs at different stages. Sharing your Popl at EO events helps you stay connected with other business owners.

Chief

Chief is a private network for women leaders, from CEOs to startup founders. This network offers a supportive community where women can connect with peers, join peer groups led by executive coaches, attend workshops, and find meetups. Chief membership is application-based, creating a curated community. Popl can help you organize your contacts from Chief events.

LinkedIn Groups

LinkedIn Groups provide an online platform for professionals to connect. Search for groups in your field or use the LinkedIn Groups Directory. Participating in these groups lets you share insights, join discussions, and expand your network. Include a link to your Popl on your LinkedIn profile for easy contact sharing.

Industry-Specific Groups

Joining industry-specific trade associations or networking groups offers valuable benefits. These groups help you stay current on industry trends, connect with potential partners, and learn from experienced professionals. Active participation keeps you informed and connected. A Popl simplifies sharing your contact information and social media within your industry group.

Rotary international is another networking group to join

Rotary is a service-based organization for business owners. Chapters meet weekly, usually for breakfast or lunch, and enjoy a presentation and time to network.

Rotary members perform acts of service around their community (and the world). This community-involvement feels good to do but also offers a way to meet people outside of your immediate industry and social circle.

Volunteering is a great way to connect and it also makes you (and your business) more visible. Many business owners will volunteer a few team members to participate in a particular activity, all wearing custom embroidered shirts with the company's logo. 

2. 85% of Jobs are Filled Through Networking

Networking is a great way to find candidates. For example, attending a trade show or conference opens you up to people from outside of your area and is a great way to find candidates for openings.

When attending these types of events, it's important to be prepared.

The first thing you should do is update job postings on your website and any online sites. Then, make sure to link to these on your digital business card. When you meet prospects, quickly share your information, which will include links to jobs right for them.

College job fairs are another great place for networking and students love to see employers that use technology so make sure to set up your digital business card today.

3. Develop Confidence and Skills

The more you put yourself and your business out there, the sharper you become.

Small business networking is a great time to give your elevator pitch and answer questions about your business. Quickly learn, based on others' reactions and follow-up questions, how to modify your pitch and answers to keep people interested.

4. Find Opportunities for Collaboration

Small businesses exist in a microcosm that is great for collaboration.

For example, if your small business is a printing company and you meet the local bookshop owner, there's a chance they might use your services over a local national office store that offers printing.

During the pandemic, restaurants saw fewer diners even once restrictions were limited. Teaming up with the local newspapers or courier service, though, made things like delivery possible.

There may not have been enough delivery orders to hire staff, but teaming up meant more options for restaurants, and delivery drivers were able to work more hours. Some opted to use courier route optimization software also provided networking opportunities within the logistics and courier services community, ultimately leading to workflow improvements and new business partnerships.

When small business leaders get together and collaborate it's incredible the problems they solve.

Small business owners value what each other brings to the community, especially when it comes to keeping local dollars local.

Another benefit of small business networking is that you're exposed to people you like but might not have anything in common with. What better way than to find a way to collaborate and grow both of your businesses? It can be as simple as keeping each other's information on hand and as much as packaging products and services or even hosting pop-ups.

When business owners meet each other, they naturally fall into playing the game of "what if?" What if a car wash sold locally-made granola to customers waiting for their cars? What if the granola company started including a coupon or code to the car wash?

By collaborating with other local businesses, you both gain exposure to each other's networks and expand your reach.

5. Find Ways to Diversify Your Offerings

One of the keys of thriving as a small business is remaining agile.

Small businesses are great at thinking outside of the box and small business networking events are great places for this type of brainstorming to happen.

Often, business owners will share ideas they've had but won't work for them. It could be a suggestion to offer classes or workshops or to develop a youth initiative. Many people have ideas that won't work for them but that they'd love to help others bring to fruition.

6. Find a Mentor

Owning a business is a unique experience and skill set. Small business networking is a great way to find a mentor. By meeting with others, you will meet people who have been in business longer or who have special skill sets that you can learn from. And small business owners are always willing to mentor because they value what you're doing.

 Mentorship doesn't have to be formal or long term. In fact, you can work together on something specific for a short time.

7. Be a Mentor

One of the best ways to learn and improve is to teach. Chances are you have a lot to offer and someone needs your help. At small business networking events you can offer to teach a session in your area of expertise.

You may also meet other business owners who need help in an area you excel in.

8. Use Small Business Networking Events for a Dress Rehearsal

Small business networking events are a great time to get feedback on new ideas.

It's easy to think that a change makes sense. Meeting with other small business owners at networking events is the perfect time to throw out ideas. This audience is perfect for giving pointed feedback. In fact, many will often have experience and can lend insight.

Some of the best advice comes from people who have done something similar and can help you avoid the mistakes they made.

9. Get Involved

As a small business owner, you live and breathe your business. Your clients, customers and staff are the focus of everything you do. And this is great.

Actively engaging in small business networking gives you the opportunity to engage with new people, places and ideas in a way that brings you into the public eye.

Sponsoring a mixer is a great way to get in front of other businesses. Meeting people from the non-profit and arts community can offer other avenues for getting your business out in front of new ideas.

There are also leadership roles available in networking groups. This is a great way to build your professional network and build relationships.

10. Capture Leads

Every meeting is a chance to meet your next client. Business owners need your service. Or, they know someone else who does.

Working with people within the community is the preferred option for small business owners. But small business networking is more than this. It's also a way to build trust, making you someone other business owners refer to.

Using Digital Tools to Capture Leads

Remember that statistic about 85% of jobs being filled through networking? It applies to clients and customers, too. Every meeting is a chance to meet your next client. Business owners need your service, or they know someone who does. Working with people within the community is often the preferred option for small business owners. Networking builds trust, making you someone other business owners will refer.

So how do you make the most of these networking opportunities? Think digital tools. When attending networking events, it's important to be prepared. Update job postings on your website and online job boards, and make sure to link to these on your digital business card. This way, when you meet prospects, you can quickly share your information, including links to relevant jobs or services. Preparation is key for maximizing your networking efforts.

Popl: A Seamless Solution for Lead Capture

Speaking of digital business cards, have you heard of Popl? It's a game-changer for networking. Popl offers a seamless blend of physical and digital networking tools, making it effortless to exchange contact details and manage connections. Their NFC-enabled business cards allow for instant information sharing with a simple tap. The Popl app integrates with CRM systems, helping you streamline your lead management process. Learn more about Popl's CRM integrations. Whether you're an individual professional, part of a sales team, or a large enterprise, Popl has options to fit your needs. Check out Popl's solutions for teams or explore their enterprise solutions. You can even book a demo to see how it works.

Beyond just contact information, you can use Popl to share links to your website, social media profiles, special offers, and even job postings. This makes it a powerful tool for capturing leads and nurturing relationships after the event. Think of it as your always-ready elevator pitch, accessible with a tap. And for those who prefer a traditional approach, Popl offers a range of physical digital business cards to complement their digital platform.

Tips for Small Business Networking

When you're heading out to networking events, here's what to keep in mind.

Wear the Nametag

Always wear a name tag, whether it's one from your business or the sticker available at the check-in desk. Print your first name clearly and write the name of your business under it. People are more likely to remember your name when they hear, see and say it. And you want to be remembered!

Bring Business Cards

Make sure that you set up a digital business card specific for small business networking. We recommend having a page on your website just for what you're looking for as far as business partners, collaboration and positions you have open.

Your digital business card comes in handy at small business networking outings because it's the quickest, easiest way to share your information and capture that of collaborators.

It's also a great way to collect others' information.

Alternatives to Traditional Business Cards

Beyond the standard paper business card, explore other options for sharing your contact information. A digital business card streamlines the process, making it easy to share and collect contact details. Plus, you can include links directly to open positions at your company or a dedicated webpage outlining partnership opportunities. This makes networking events far more efficient. Think about how much time you spend looking for a pen to jot down a quick note on the back of someone's business card only to lose it later. Digital business cards eliminate this hassle.

Online networking platforms like LinkedIn offer another way to connect with professionals and stay top-of-mind. Actively participate in industry-specific forums and online communities to share your expertise and build relationships with potential collaborators and clients. These digital strategies complement in-person networking, expanding your reach and maximizing your networking efforts. Check out Popl's app to see how it integrates with your existing systems through their CRM integrations.

Follow Up

Any time you meet others at a small business networking event, it's important to follow up.

Popl digital business cards do this for you automatically. People will appreciate the personal touch of a followup email or text. Be sure to follow and engage with their social media, too.

Final Words on Small Business Networking

Your business is served well when you take part in small business networking. Whether it's through a chamber, service-based group like Rotary or formal networking group, taking the time to connect with others will grow your network and business.

Types of Small Business Networking Events

Finding the right event is key to making the most of your networking efforts. Here are a few types of small business networking events to consider:

Trade Shows and Conferences

Industry-specific trade shows and conferences are fantastic opportunities to connect with potential clients, vendors, and partners. These larger events often feature presentations, workshops, and dedicated networking sessions, providing ample chances to learn about industry trends and make valuable connections. Attending a trade show or conference can also be helpful when searching for job candidates outside of your immediate area.

Workshops and Webinars

Formal networking groups frequently offer workshops and webinars. These events combine learning from an expert with dedicated networking time, allowing you to gain valuable insights while connecting with other professionals. It's a chance to share your challenges and solutions, learn from others' experiences, and build relationships with people who understand your business.

Online Networking Events

Online networking events, such as virtual conferences, webinars, and LinkedIn groups, offer a convenient and accessible way to expand your network. These events can be particularly helpful for connecting with people outside your geographic area and often require a smaller time commitment than in-person events. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals, follow thought leaders, and participate in relevant discussions.

Local Community Events

Local community events, like chamber of commerce mixers, charity fundraisers, and business after-hours events, provide opportunities to connect with other business owners in your area. Attending local events regularly, both online and in person, helps build relationships with people who share your local business ecosystem. These connections can lead to referrals, partnerships, and a stronger sense of community.

Networking for Specific Purposes

Job Searching

Networking is invaluable for job seekers. Attending industry events, connecting with people on LinkedIn, and reaching out to your existing network can open doors to unadvertised opportunities and provide valuable insights into different companies and roles. Make sure your digital business card is up-to-date with links to your online resume and portfolio to easily share your qualifications.

Networking for Women

Networking is especially important for women entrepreneurs. Connecting with other women in business creates a supportive community where you can share experiences, offer advice, and celebrate each other's successes. Look for women-focused networking groups and events to build these valuable connections.

Choosing the Right Networking Opportunities

Assessing Your Needs and Goals

Before signing up for every networking event, take a moment to consider your needs and goals. What are you hoping to achieve through networking? Are you looking for new clients, partners, mentors, or job opportunities? Having a clear objective will help you choose the right events and make the most of your time.

Considering the Cost and Time Commitment

Networking events require an investment of both time and money. Consider the cost of attending, including travel, accommodation, and event fees, as well as the time commitment involved in attending and following up. Regularly evaluating your network and making adjustments as needed ensures it aligns with your business needs and resources.

Building Genuine Relationships at Networking Events

Focus on Building Real Connections

Networking isn't just about collecting business cards. Focus on building genuine relationships with the people you meet. Ask questions, listen actively, and show genuine interest in their businesses and experiences. These authentic connections are far more valuable than a large number of impersonal contacts.

Following Up After Events

Following up after a networking event is crucial for solidifying new connections. Send a personalized email or LinkedIn message referencing your conversation, and suggest a follow-up call or meeting if appropriate. Tools like Popl's digital business cards can automate this process, making it easy to stay in touch with new contacts and manage your growing network.

Networking Event Strategies

Setting Clear Goals for Each Event

Before attending an event, set clear goals for what you want to accomplish. Do you want to meet a specific person, learn about a particular industry trend, or make a certain number of new connections? Having a clear objective will help you focus your efforts and measure your success.

Preparing Your Elevator Pitch

A concise and compelling elevator pitch is essential for networking events. Practice summarizing your business and its value proposition in a way that is clear, engaging, and memorable. Be prepared to tailor your pitch to different audiences and situations.

Making a Positive First Impression

First impressions matter. Dress professionally, be approachable and enthusiastic, and make eye contact when speaking with others. A genuine smile and a confident handshake can go a long way in building rapport and establishing a positive connection. Always wear a name tag so people can easily remember your name and company.

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• Why You Need a Business Network | The Value of Networking
• Navigating the Networking World: Essential Tips for Effective Business Connections

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key benefits of networking for small businesses? Networking offers numerous advantages for small businesses. It's a chance to learn from peers, discover potential collaborators, identify mentors, and even find new hires or customers. It also helps you stay updated on industry trends and refine your business strategies through valuable feedback and shared experiences. Plus, active networking increases your visibility within the local business community, leading to more referrals and a stronger reputation.

Which networking groups are most beneficial for small business owners? Your local Chamber of Commerce is an excellent starting point, providing access to local business owners, advocacy, and resources. Other valuable organizations include the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE), Business Networking International (BNI), and industry-specific groups. For women entrepreneurs, Chief offers a supportive network. Online platforms like LinkedIn groups can also expand your reach beyond your immediate area. Rotary International combines networking with community service, offering unique connection opportunities.

How can I make the most of networking events? Preparation is essential. Update your digital business card with relevant links, including job postings or partnership opportunities. Have a concise elevator pitch ready and be prepared to actively listen and engage in genuine conversations. Always wear a nametag and follow up promptly after the event to solidify new connections. Consider using a digital tool like Popl to streamline contact sharing and follow-up.

What are some different types of networking events I should consider? Explore a variety of events to find what suits your needs. Trade shows and conferences offer industry-specific connections, while workshops and webinars combine learning with networking opportunities. Online events like virtual conferences and LinkedIn group discussions expand your reach. Local community events, such as Chamber of Commerce mixers and business after-hours gatherings, strengthen ties within your local business ecosystem.

How can I build genuine relationships at networking events? Focus on making real connections, not just collecting contacts. Ask thoughtful questions, listen attentively, and show sincere interest in others' businesses. Follow up promptly with personalized messages referencing your conversation. Authentic engagement fosters stronger, more valuable relationships over time.