Being a member of the Phelps Chamber of Commerce has many great values. The increased exposure and marketing opportunities are easy to see, but appreciating the benefits of networking is more complicated. You may be thinking “I already have an established business with a good customer base – how can socializing help me?” The answer to this is that networking can gain you referrals and brand awareness, and can provide knowledge and ideas to improve your business.
Networking to Grow Your Business
Advertising is the obvious way to gain new customers and increase your revenue. However, networking is a free and sometimes more beneficial method. By attending Chamber events, you can make useful connections and remind fellow Chamber members about the services your business provides. For example, if you are a web designer and another business is looking for a new website, you will quickly come to mind after a friendly conversation at a Chamber event. Business-to-business commerce is an important part of being successful and the opportunities for this abound in the Northwoods!
By creating connections within your community, you also put a face on your business. People are more comfortable working with businesses that they can identify with. And maybe another member knows someone who could use your services – word-of-mouth referrals are always valuable! Networking provides you with a way to increase brand awareness beyond other Chamber members.
Networking to Gain Professional Knowledge
No one is great at everything, right? As business owners, we are constantly striving to learn and understand all of the behind the scenes aspects. You are the expert in your field, but are you an effective marketer? Do you understand the technical details of your computer? How well do you follow new tax rules that affect your profits?
Networking with fellow Chamber members can provide insight and information to make your business run smoother and even save you money. And every business owner has valuable knowledge to share. By recognizing that your neighbors have the same drive and ambitions as yourself, you can work together to achieve these shared goals.
Networking to Increase Confidence
In the previous article, How Being a Chamber Member Can Bring You Business, we explained how being a member of the Chamber affects the level of trust consumers have in your business. When you volunteer at a Chamber event or attend a networking meeting, you are telling the world that you are proud to share your knowledge and time. By simple opening yourself up to networking opportunities, you raise the confidence that others have in you, which in turn leads to increased commerce.
Networking can help you grow your confidence in yourself as well. You will see that other members have the same struggles and challenges as you are faced with. And by reaching out and forming connections, you are practicing the same communication skills that will benefit you when dealing with customers. Confidence in yourself and your business equals revenue!
How Can the Phelps Chamber Help Me Network?
The Phelps Chamber works to promote our area and its businesses, but we are also available to help you make the most of networking. Follow the Chamber on Facebook to see what other businesses are up to, and start conversations with your neighbors. Share your opinions and professional knowledge on our website blog. Participate in a Phelps special event to meet other business owners and unite together for a common cause. Attend Chamber meetings and networking sessions, like the recent collaboration evening, to form valuable connections with people who understand your drive. It is only by working together that we can ensure the success of this great town!