BLOG
Networking is an essential step to success. As a small business owner, you have to be around people to drum up business. Sometimes, that can be hard, especially when you are initially getting started. (You are in front of the computer for hours setting up social media sites and websites and getting your paperwork in order.) Some people are shy and don’t like being around crowds. I want to share my two cents about engaging with community and business leaders.
My circle is tight. But, I am fortunate to have two sister friends, or as I call them my Ride or Die, who encourage and support me. They give me their opinion, sometimes whether I like it or not. They give me a dose of “real talk” when needed. And believe me, sometimes I don’t want to hear the negative. But, I know what they have to say comes from the heart.
Let’s go back in time. I remember when I was in high school, I wanted to stay out late with my friends. When I got to college, there were many late nights, or early mornings. I was studying. Okay, I’ll be honest, a few of those late nights did include hanging out and attending a few parties. (Don’t judge… I always made good grades! LOL) Now, my late nights, or early mornings, are all about work. This is the life of a business lady.
It can be tough finding and maintaining steady clients. For some, finding capital can be a challenge. There are days when you just want to give up. Don’t do it! Surround yourself with positive people who will encourage you. You also need to have people in your corner who will tell you the truth, good and bad. But, get rid of the dream killers.
As much as I believe in giving your time, talent and cash (if you have it), there are lessons that I have learned along the way. Of course, you know I am going to share a few. Please know that it is okay to say no. We all try, but we can’t always do everything all the time for everyone. It’s also important to stand up for yourself. There are folks who will try to take advantage of you. Remember this line my mother would tell me when I was a kid, “Don’t take my kindness for foolishness.”
Women sticking together is so powerful. As a business lady (that’s what my favorite uncle calls me now), I know the importance of helping other women. I also realize you have to ask for help. And sometimes, you have to offer it when you see there is a need.
Networking is key. Just this week, a kind, female business owner reached out to me just to offer advice and support as well as to see how we can assist each other. We talked with another small business owner and decided that we are going to get with women in our field to find ways to partner and support each other.
I absolutely love gadgets! This coming from a person who back in 2009 did not even know how to use a flash drive. I had a computer that ran Windows 95 and no internet service. (You know those old PCs. Don’t judge me! LOL) Things have changed drastically for me. Let’s bring it forward to my original statement – I love gadgets. Social media is a daily part of my life. In fact, a hot spot/projector and a smartwatch are just a couple of items in my toolkit.
It appears technology and social media are here to say. So, embrace them! It is so crucial to keep up and stay connected. Studies show 92 percent of marketers say social media campaigns have increased web traffic and 78 percent say it generates more quality leads. Bottom line, small businesses must utilize social media. Don’t be afraid of it.
You can’t forget about apps on mobile devices either. There are so many that can help advance your company, product and brand. You have to keep up with the changing times. So, be on the lookout for my continued use of technology, gadgets and apps to enhance “The Power of Your Voice.”
Many people will give you advice when you are beginning a new venture. Some of it will be solicited and some, well, you may not want to hear. Some advice is real talk and needs to go in one ear and stick. I have received some good information from my fellow entrepreneurers. Not everyone will believe in your dreams, so it’s important to surround yourself with people who will encourage and support you.
It seems I always get tips at the gym. I ran into a friend the other day who has been in business for more than 16 years. He gave me an earful, but it was stuff that will stick and that I want to pass along.
There are often interesting conversations when I am sitting in the sauna at the gym. The ladies and I talk about anything and everything. The other day, we discussed mortgage rates, insurance and credit scores. We were looking for options on ways to protect ourselves and our investments. This led me to, of course, think about it from a small business owner’s perspective.
As a new business owner, I seem to be busier than ever. I am applying for jobs, competing for bids and making contacts. So far, so good. I have two clients and possibly a couple of more. But, the work is far from over.
I enjoy meeting people and making connections. Networking is a key to success for any business. You can’t be afraid to share details about what you do. I was in a store recently and a woman and I started talking about our companies. This led to something positive that may be in the works.
I am putting in my two cents to help other small business owners. Don’t be afraid to talk about your services; ask for assistance – there are so many things you probably don’t know; know and live your brand; and follow up with all of the contacts you make – thank you and I appreciate you go a long way!
8261 Halls Hammock Ct.
Jacksonville, FL 32244
(904) 535-8862
angela@angelaspearscomm.com
