No matter what stage your business is at, the resources you build and the people you surround yourself with can help your company grow and strengthen your interests in the process. Connections breed connections. The more people you meet in the community, the more you will continue to meet, and pretty soon you’ll have the whole town on speed dial.
Networking in your community has a lot of advantages. For instance, you’ll always have somebody nearby to call on when you need support or advice. You’ll always have plenty of people to talk to at local networking events, and you can be sure of an excellent turnout when you host your own get-togethers.
The strength of community
There is truth in the phrase “your network is your net worth.” The strength of those relationships is the fundamental key to your success.
The very definition of a community is a group that either lives in the same place or has something in common. It is a fellowship based on shared ideas, attitudes, interests, and goals. Applied to your business life, this can be a mighty force.
Standing alone, you may find it difficult to further your interests and get ahead, but, standing together, you can weather storms and move mountains.
Shifting the mindset
Many people think that networking is about shaking hands, making pitches, talking shop. While you might pick up a few connections that way, you will find more success if you shift that mindset to relationship-building.
Focus on providing value, and that doesn’t always mean it’s about money. When you establish mutually beneficial relationships with other business owners and individuals in your midst, you are building community – one that will be stronger for your efforts. It’s those relationships that transform those connections into a community.
Build a community, meet your networking goals
Step one in any networking effort is to get out there and meet people. Building community is no different from that standpoint. Community groups like your local chamber such as El Dorado Hills Chamber of Commerce or service clubs like the Lions, Kiwanis, or Rotary are great organizations to join because they connect you to causes that matter and put you side by side with other business people who care about the same things you do.
Being a part of something bigger than yourself is a way to give back, but it’s also a way to raise your standing in the community. You will be seen as a force for positive change, a trustworthy individual who has the best interests of others at heart. When it comes to gaining recognition for your business, you’ll be standing shoulder-to-shoulder with your community’s top performers, and that’s always a good place to be.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for networking ideas, look no further than your own backyard. Networking in your community not only supports your dreams, but it makes possible the dreams of others.
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