Networking
Fact is, skill and grit only get you so far. "Networking is not even a question of 'Should I?' It's a lifeblood," says Susan RoAne, author of "How to Work a Room". As an entrepreneur, if you don't have a network, you will keep reinventing the wheel." It's critical to the success and viability of your business to network with the community. Creating a Rolodex of names of not only potential customers, but local contacts who can support you, is just the first step. This link provides resources for making the most out of your network in the North Central Kentucky region.
What are some ways to build and maximize your network?
Mentors
Mentors are a valuable resource for small businesses. These business leaders can help you avoid making mistakes in your business that they may have made in the past. Mentors have a wealth of knowledge and experience that can help your business succeed. Some mentor groups in the area are: SCORE ; NKU Innovation Center ; and The Kentucky Entrepreneurial Coaches Institute (KECI)
Networking Groups
Networking groups offer the opportunity for business owners to share ideas, contacts, and obtain sales and leads. Networking groups provide the opportunity to develop relationship with people that are driven just like you. Some groups in your surrounding region are: your local Chamber of Commerce; BNI (Business Network International); Tri-State Business Network; Small Business Alliances
Online Networking
How do you stay connected with people or start relationships with people you don't know? Answer: Online networking. There are many benefits to online networking:
· Increases your networking reach: there are millions of users on each networking site
· You are more searchable to others
· You can stay connected at all times
· Low Cost Marketing tool
· Collect business ideas
Some online networking sites are: LinkedIn; Facebook; YouNoodle; Twitter; Blogs (Wordpress) Check out this useful site: 50 Social Sites That Every Business Needs a Presence on
Mentors
Mentors are a valuable resource for small businesses. These business leaders can help you avoid making mistakes in your business that they may have made in the past. Mentors have a wealth of knowledge and experience that can help your business succeed. Some mentor groups in the area are:
Why Networking & How To Do It
"Networking is not even a question of 'Should I?' It's a lifeblood," says Susan RoAne, author of How to Work a Room . "As an entrepreneur, if you don't have a network, you will keep reinventing the wheel." ...
Benefits of Networking Groups
Networking groups offer the opportunity for business owners to share ideas, contacts, and obtain sales and leads. Amidst other talented entrepreneurs, you're likely to develop relationships with people that are driven in much the same ways you are. Some groups in your surrounding region are: your local Chamber of Commerce, BNI (Business...
Making the Most of Online Networking
How do you stay connected with people or start relationships with people you don't know? Answer: Online networking. This method has many benefits. First, it increases your networking reach. There are millions of users on each networking site, all available to you and your business. Next, it makes...
Resource Groups and Organizations
There are many helpful organizations in the surrounding region you may contact for advice and guidance about your current or proposed business. KyBIZinfo can help you find a resource near you. The NKU Innovation Center ...
Additional Area Resources
Don't stop there! There are many other resources in the North Central Kentucky region that may provide you with necessary and helpful information. Tourism not only provides a basis for area businesses, it also improves the quality of life of everyone throughout the region.
