Networking:
The exchange of
information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions; specifically : the
cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business.
© 2014
Merriam-Webster, Incorporated
Success in the modern business world involves the effort of
going out and meeting new people, forming alliances, or simply making friends
in the industry. You may think this requires a willingness to leave your
hometown or country to go on fact-finding missions abroad, but more likely, you
will only be required to travel across town. We often ignore the fact that the best
contacts are typically right in our own backyard. A major benefit of your
membership in the St. Marys Area Chamber of Commerce is the opportunity for
networking. Members meet other members at business luncheons, breakfast
briefing, banquets, Business-After-Hours events, etc. There are also frequent
opportunities to make contact with key local and state Government leaders. The
opportunities to expand your business through the Chamber network are
limitless.
As a growth strategy, meeting other enterprising individuals
will help your business prosper. Business friends are crucial, not only as
potential sources of opportunities but to help in times of crisis. Consumer
demands, trends, economies, governments, and laws are always in flux.
Networking and meeting with peers or more established business owners can
provide valuable insights into current happenings in the marketplace. Your
chances of “catching a break” or “getting that big opportunity” can be vastly
improved with help from the right people. It is vital that your business
develop these types of relationships, sometimes with complete strangers,
sometimes with your neighbor; it is how opportunities are discovered.
Small opportunities
are often the beginning of great enterprises.
Demosthenes, Athenian
statesman, 384 or (383) BC–322 BC
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