Networking Rules!

We are out and about, that's for sure!  With the new launching of the Santa Barbara County Small Business Development Center (SBDC), we are hob-nobbing with all the go-to business people in town, from the Santa Barbara, Lompoc, and Goleta Valley Chambers, to MIT Enterprise forum, NAWBO-SB, SABER, AWC, you name it, we're there!  Recently I spoke at the Goleta Valley Chamber B2B.  If you haven't been, you should make a point of going to at least one this year.  It's a fun and lively networking event, with great food, and a take-home hotsheet.  Bring plenty of business cards, and prepare a 30 second commercial - you might win something for originality!

Why is networking so important to business? 

• Networking helps BUILD RELATIONSHIPS WITH PEOPLE slowly, in a fun (but not pushy) way.  (Networking in an indirect sales tool that takes time). And we need people in business!  They eventually become our clients or customers, our employees or partners, or our investors.
• Networking helps you build TRUST. The people you meet will be able to put a face to your business.  It becomes more personal.  People want to do business with other people they like and trust.  Trust usually trumps price.
• Networking helps you gain KNOWLEDGE about your own industry and other areas.  You might be surprised by the people or industries with whom you find have synergy with your business.
• Networking helps you build a bank of RESOURCES and REFERRALS.  If there is an area in which you can't serve your client, now you can send them off to someone you trust, who will do a great job for your client.  Your client will appreciate your referral, and that business will refer back to you when the time comes.

Now, multiply the importance of networking by 100!  Why? Because we live in small towns where the majority of business is earned through word-of-mouth referrals and reputation.

Happy networking trails, and we will see you out there!