HIVE Connex Empowering Small Businesses And Start-ups Through Proactive Networking

HIVE CONNEX Networking Unleashed

In the spirit of entrepreneurship and networking, HIVE Connex hosted it's first virtual networking event of 2021 on January 7th. Through informed and proactive networking we hope to inspire small business owners to actively promote their business while creating a network of ongoing referrals sources. According to OBERLO, there are over 30.7 million small businesses in the U.S. and over 90% of the business population represents small to mid-size businesses. These numbers are expected to grow as new generations come of age and enter the workforce.

Keeping these numbers in mind, what better way to start the new year then small business owners coming together and sharing their thoughts on 2020, their hopes for 2021, and the directions and goals they want for their businesses. As a group of businesses leaders we connected as we shared information, learned new skills and created what we hope to be long lasting relationships. Here are some thoughts shared with us after our networking event:

"Thanks for having me. It was fun and informative. I will be taking this information back to the team.' ~LG

Great webinar! Excellent information. Thank you! ~ PG

Thanks for having me...I'll definitely be attending more. You guys were sharing some good information. ~JMJ

Most of us have heard the term "your network is your net-worth."   For a small business, this statement is incredibly important and powerful.  The people that you connect with can help determine the longevity and success of your business.  Additionally, creating long lasting relationships is key in developing word of mouth marketing, ongoing referrals, and repeat business.  Deliberate and strategic networking also creates the following for your business:

1. Introduces more people to the products and services your business offers.

2. Creates a pathway for you to actively engage with your followers.  

3. Provides great brand exposure and keeps your business on the minds of potential clients.

4. Provides the space and ability to create innovative ways to collaborate with other businesses.

It is likely that you have already answered the questions below when you were in the planning and roll-out phase of your business, but when beginning the process of networking, your answers should be clear and flawless.  When encountering potential new customers and/or referral sources, your "elevator" speech should be well-thought out, well-planned and well-executed.  Here are some key points to keep in mind when preparing your networking conversation:

Who are your target customers?

What problem are you trying to solve for your customers?

What distinguishes your business or organization from your competitors?

As a current or future business owner do you have clear and concise answers to the questions above? If the answer is no, we encourage you to spend some time developing your responses in order to make your networking efforts more productive and effective.

Great networking takes time, planning and great execution.  The end result can be extremely rewarding for your business and how you establish your business ties within your community.  Taking the time and creating a well-thought-out plan for networking your business in advance will reduce the "on the spot" stress you may feel when attending an activity or event.  The end goal is to provide the "just right" information to attract the attention of new customers and entice them into not only using your goods or services, but to also refer your business to their family, friends and business contacts, which will result in many new customers for you, for years to come.  

"Networking is not collecting contacts!  Networking is about planting relations. ~Mishaat

Finding new and better ways to network with your potential customers and your community is not only financially rewarding, but can also re-energize your business.  When creating a new networking plan consider working with HIVE Connex. We can assist with developing your networking skills and ensure that you are networking in all the right areas for your specific business.  Moreover, we can assist with keeping your networking plans up to date, and fresh, while maintaining your networking objectives of keeping your business thriving and successful.

Schedule your complimentary consultation before January 21. 2021 and receive a 10% discount on your customized coaching or training plan.

For more information on networking, marketing, coaching, mentoring, branding, strategic planning, business planning, training and business concierge services, please visit our website at www.hiveconnex.com, or email us at hiveconnex@gmail.com. We invite you to follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, TWITTER and LinkedIn for information on upcoming events, business tips and blogs.

Please stay tuned for information on our next business networking event in February.