Networking can be a lifeline of support and business generation to any business...especially if you are a start-up or small business. However, for many business professionals, networking is a task that tends to be the least enjoyable part of the job, as it can be uncomfortable being the new person in an established group, and it takes more time and effort out of your already full day. I get that...trust me I do. But, I am here to say that the initial discomfort of meeting new people and putting forth the extra time and effort that go into properly networking is worth it for your business!
Below are what I believe to be the Top 5 Benefits of Networking that will bring value to your business...
- Connections: Making connections, gaining new contacts and building new relationships can offer long-term benefits to your business. When the need arises, these people may very well call upon you, or even better...the contact makes another connection for you!
- Opportunities: Networking almost always results in new opportunities. These opportunities may not materialize immediately, but they typically do...and sometimes when you are in need. Opportunities could be in the form of a lead for new business, a partnership, or a new service you might want to provide.
- Knowledge: Networking offers a terrific venue for you to expand your knowledge and for you to share your knowledge. In many instances this shared information will impact your business positively. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to help another person's business.
- Skills: For many, networking is a skill itself. The more you network and put yourself out there, the more you will enhance your communications skills, which in turn will help you to grow your business.
- Reputation: By becoming a regular networking member, you will be helping to raise the profile of your business, and in turn this will help to boost your reputation in your business community.
Below are the links to the Calendar of Events for several of the Philadelphia Region's well-respected and long-standing business chambers and networks. As members who regularly attend these organization's events,, I recommend you take some time to explore. The time you invest in networking will be of value to you and your business!
Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce: http://www.greaterphilachamber.com/EventCalendar.aspx
Irish American Business Chamber & Network: http://www.iabcn.org/events/index.php
Main Line Chamber of Commerce: http://www.mlcc.org/index.php?id=32
The Main Line Society of Professional Women: http://www.spwmainline.com/2011Calendar.html
Professional Business Network: http://www.pbnworks.com/calendarofevents.asp
Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC): http://cceconomicdevelopment.com/news.html
Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry: http://www.cccbi.org/signature_events.php
Penn Suburban Chamber of Commerce: http://www.pennsuburban.org/chamberevents.php
Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC): http://www.montcoedc.com/calendar/
Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey: http://www.chambersnj.com/events/overview.aspx