This may seem strange coming from online marketing specialists, however, in-person networking can be a great addition to an online campaign. Throughout our cumulative professional experience, Rosewood VA aims to inspire our clients in other methods of marketing including promotional marketing and, most importantly, networking. Why, you might ask? The more people you meet, the more potential clients who will visit your website. The more visits to your website increases your SEO. Then your website can close the deal!
I have been networking in the Newmarket, Aurora & East Gwillimbury communities for over 10 years. If I can make one suggestion to new entrepreneurs and small business owners, it would be to NETWORK! Step outside your comfort zone and get out there.
Our Networking Tips for New Entrepreneurs in Newmarket, Aurora and East Gwillimbury
Marketing is all about finding the best streams for your business. For Rosewood VA, in addition to our website and online leads, the other stream has been networking. We are a member of several local groups, and serve on the Volunteer Board of Green Connections Networking group, which focuses on promoting “green” business practices. We also attend some events as guests; paying for the meeting to see if you’d like to join the group.
Here are our top tips for networking for new entrepreneurs.
Things to Ask Yourself Before choosing a Networking Group/Event:
- Who is your target audience? (Demographic Information such as age, sex, income level, etc.)
- What is Your Cost of Acquisition for a New Client?
- What’s Your Yearly Networking Budget?
Once you answer these questions, you can narrow down the list of possible networking events.
Go Where Your Potential Clients Are
This is the number one factor I consider when looking at which networking groups to attend. As an entrepreneur, your time is valuable, and this can help eliminate a few groups right away. After you’ve identified your target audience, use that to compare the potential networking group options. You want to ensure that your target audience will be in attendance.
Attend First Meetings as a Guest
Networking doesn’t have to break the bank either. Instead of joining several groups right away, first attend those meetings as a guest. It’s a great way to meet the group members and see if the attendees align with your determined target audience. If they have a website or Facebook page, send a message to the host asking to attend as a guest.
In addition to that, there are several groups that have small annual fees. I prefer these ones as a new entrepreneur as some other group fees can be steep. Always remember to record your ROI from Networking groups.
Some great local options:
- Chambers of Commerce (Newmarket, Aurora, EG)
- Georgina Business Networking Group (Georgina)
- Green Connections (Newmarket/Aurora)
- Green Drinks (Aurora)
- Femcity (Richmond Hill)
- Business Women’s Network of York Region (BWNYR)
- MoMondays (Aurora)
Giving Back is a Bonus
I feel that there is a new wave of networking groups emerging with a philanthropic twist. Most of these groups have been around for some time, but the awareness is growing.
Some great local options:
- 100 Women Who Care (there are chapters in many communities across Ontario)
- Successful Women Achieving Goals (SWAG) in Newmarket/Aurora
- Ladies in Philanthropy for Southlake (LIPS) in Newmarket
If you would like to attend any networking groups with Rosewood VA, please contact us below. Here is a blog we wrote with more networking tips.
I hope you enjoyed these networking tip for entrepreneurs in Newmarket, Aurora and East Gwillimbury. Networking truly is a great way to increase your business’ visibility.
For more tips like these you can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Good luck and happy networking!
Deanna
