January is, as we all know, as month for catching up on those jobs that were ignored during the two week long Christmas break. However, for small and independent businesses it should also be a month to look to the future and networking is one way of moving your business forward.At The Business Den we look for as many ways to network as possible and always have our business cards on hand 'in case'.There are numerous ways of networking;Networking Groups: We are members of WIBN - Women in Business Networking, where we have the pleasure of assisting numerous fellow members with their holidays (we decided to promote ourselves as a Travel Agent for our membership). We regularly arrange 1-2-1 meetings with other members, which then gives us the opportunity to promote the Business Services that we also offer.Word of Mouth: Last week, I purchased wallpaper (my hot water tank leaked back in November and the knock on effect has been ongoing decorating since, however we are nearly there and finally able to see the end of the project!). Whilst at Martin Kaye Interiors (Mill Hill) where I bought the wallpaper, we got talking about networking, and I suggested to Martin that his female colleague should come along to our meeting as we have an interior designer and another lady who provides automated systems within houses..Martin mentioned he has just started supplying automated windows and I am emailing them both to make the introduction. Networking on behalf of others benefits not only them, but will keep your company in their minds.Twitter: The Business Den has built up a following by retweeting others comments as well as posting our own tweets. By retweeting, we hit people and companies who otherwise would not know of your existance. Try it!Facebook: Set up a Facebook page for your company; invite people you know. If you have spare funds, advertise your page to a specifice audience. Facebook allows you to set the criteria of your target audience as well as the maximum daily budget for your expenditure. Make sure you update your page regularly to maintain interest.Linkedin: Linkedin is a brilliant place to link with likeminded businesses and groups as well as connect with business men and women who you think mught be interested in the services you offer.Right, we are now off to practise the above... this evening I have been invited to a dinner where I will meet some people who have the potential of introduce new business to The Business Den. FIngers crossed everyone! Read More
