“Networking delivers opportunities.” Stefan Thomas
“Everybody needs somebody sometimes.” Most of us are familiar with this song phrase. And most of the time, if not all of the time, we refer this phrase to romantic relationships. But if you think about it, it can and should apply to all types of relationships including business.
Just as it is commonly said that “it takes a village to raise a child.” It should also be said 
that “it takes a quality network to grow (and sustain) a business.” And the same goes for other types of goals. Whether you are looking to complete academic goals or to secure a spouse, knowing where to look and how to obtain the best information to make sound decisions depends on the networks you are in.
Networking isn’t new. Since the beginning of creation, God created man with the intention for him not to be alone (Gen. 2:18). Thus God created woman. And since the early days of earth’s history man has bartered and networked to meet their needs (emotional, physical and spiritual). And it is still the power of networking that helps businesses and other types of relationships thrive and prosper.
So why do so many people struggle with networking? Maybe it’s due to shyness, fear, doubt and all the other mental blocks we often find ourselves battling with daily. Regardless which one it is, if you want to be successful in business and in life you HAVE to get past it. You are not an island and neither is your business. Your potential clients/customers depend on your business’ offerings making it to the market in order for it to meet their need thus making you a business success! And what is the best and most economical way to spread the word about your business? (drum roll) By word of mouth and that includes networking!
So before you spend a boat load of money hiring a publicist, radio and newspaper ads, etc., (especially if you are start-up company with little to no marketing budget) be sure to first use your voice to share your passion and business offerings with others in your target market via networking events in your area.
Don’t know where to look? Try local Chamber of Commerce, SBA office, Eventbrite and even church bulletins. And if you enjoy planning events, create your own networking event and invite companies and people in your target group.
For more information about networking, I recommend this easy read, Instant Networking, by Stefan Thomas.
So what are you waiting for? Go network and make both your business and life a success!
Much Luv 4 Ya,
Angela
Singer/songwriter/speaker/philanthropist
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