Business Networking: Evolving Beyond Traditional Tactics
January 20, 2024
The good news is that 2021 will be a banner year for networking. At a minimum, expect to see more traditional business awards ceremonies like the Credit Suisse 10-K and the Forbes 30-Second Business Network move to social networks. This is a move towards further promoting the latest breakthroughs in technology, data, and business models.
Networking is an important part of an effective business marketing strategy. It helps you to get products and services to your audience faster. Plus, it reduces the chances of getting burned by a competitor. And when it comes to customer loyalty and nurturing professional associations, effective networking provides a sense of community. And that's vital for running a successful business.
So, how can you improve your existing online business networking strategy in a way that leads to more leads, more clients, more business contacts, and better earnings?
How To Approach Business Networking In 2023
Any network of people or companies (including small business networking groups) working towards a common goal can benefit from networking. Many large and small business owners create a list of professional contacts. They find that keeping in touch with like-minded people who could help their business or become mentors helps propel their business's growth. Companies collect the contact information on the signup form when registering for a webinar or conference.
Networking can take many forms. Back in the day, business professionals had a different approach to networking. They used to look forward to going out on a Thursday or Friday night to meet with their networking groups. You would get coffee or drink with people from other companies or potential clients. Sitting at a café with fresh coffee and other young professionals was appealing then. You could easily make a connection by doing something as simple as trading business cards.
But during the pandemic, we lived in a world of face masks, sanitization stations, and social distancing. This physically stopped business owners from renting out a convention center and offering free food as an incentive to make new contacts.
Today, however, we are back outside, but many professionals have found benefits to making virtual connections and networking online. In the post-pandemic world, business and networking have adopted a hybrid approach.