by JQ Adams

Created on: January 24, 2009   Last Updated: November 26, 2010

Networking is an extremely powerful and effective tool when growing any business. It is having a sales force without paying for a full time staff, launching an advertising campaign without having a marketing budget, and establishing yourself as an expert in your field without having to become a media darling. The basic goal is to provide professionals, resources, and clients to networking members without incurring outrageous costs. Listed here are a review of the most common networking resources and how to implement them into your own business.

Friends, Family AND CLIENTS

PRO: Family, Friends Clients are the most common resource for any new business owner to tap into. They have a history with you, know what you are capable of, and can vouch for your character, thus giving you a "foot in the door." Another bonus is that they truly want to help you do whatever they in order for you to succeed.

CON: The people who care the most are often the biggest naysayers when it comes to venturing out on your own. They will be the first to doubt your ability and determination, and the first to come down on you should you fail to live up to their expectations and fulfill the promises they made on your behalf. They want you to be "safe"and starting a new business is anything but safe.

MAKING IT WORK: Be sincere when asking for help from friends and family. Also, be specific when asking them for what you need. When they come through for you, send them thank you cards, and keep them up to date on how your business is growing. To keep sending people your way, they want to know that they are actually helping you, that you are fulfilling your promises, and that your business is growing. Lastly, take all of their advice with a grain of salt. Some advice will make sense, but other bits will go against the grain. Thank for their advice and referrals, but stick to your instincts.

PREVIOUS CLIENTS

PRO: Previous Clients already have a history with you. They will be glad to see you striking out on your own; they will be willing to let you solicit to them; and they will be willing to help you with advice and referrals for getting off the ground.

CON: This group can be difficult to win away from your previous company since they have a history with that business as well. Also, they might possibly be a little jealous of your entrepreneurial spirit and thus a bit reluctant to see you succeed where they might fear to travel.

MAKING IT WORK: Be attentive and offer excellent customer service.

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