Build Connections

The Chamber is rich. If you value people, think of us as a giant people bank with thousands of potential connections to build and solidify your business. Imagine you set out to build a tower, just one lone tower reaching to the sky. How tall do you think you could build it before it would topple, lacking the stability of supportive connections? Your business is much like that struggling tower.

               In FilmConnection the recording industry acknowledges the value of business-to-business connections beyond Chamber activities. When we brush elbows with one another at Chamber events, the casual networking creates bridges for further communication, but there is no time to discuss complementary strategies in depth. New marketing methods and challenges are developed when we meet again, outside of Chamber events, building more substantial bridges of cooperation and mutual support.

               Sounds good, right? But how does this happen? Inc.com suggests five simple steps you  may employ to design solid connections:

1.      Do your research. Think about how you might benefit another business and have a plan in mind before you meet.

2.      Adhere to the 48-hour rule. Get in touch with each other within two days after you meet. Don’t let time erase the good vibes you generated.

3.      It’s okay to stand your ground. Know what you want, what you need, and stick to it. You must benefit one another, but you can’t give away the farm and still raise produce.

4.      Ask thoughtful questions. Know enough about another business owner to know how to talk appropriately about his work. Random introductions don’t have to be entirely random.

5.      Be confident. Remember, you, too, belong to the Chamber!

When you carry this mindset you place yourself in a position to serve and be served. Take a moment and think about the businesses that complement your own. You aren’t wanting to build a connection with your competition, but there are a multitude of companies who work alongside of you. They need you, and you need them. These are you people. Build your tribe.

               Two types of partnerships are always a good mix for B2B relationships. Staples describes them as complementary co-marketing and special neighborhood events. In both settings you and another business can grow. For example, devise a neighborhood marketing opportunity. Invite a write to help you with copy in return for referrals. That’s one. Suppose you are offering landscaping…invite a small nursery to come on board, that’s two. Invite a caterer to provide refreshments for the chance to advertise for free. That’s three. Three businesses benefit from one marketing endeavor. Each gave and each received. Mutual back-scratching at its best.

               You are encouraged to grow your businesses in tandem with others. I welcome the opportunity to work alongside others, as do all of your Chamber family. Let’s do it!