Many Small Business owners believe networking is not for them.  They could not be more wrong!  No matter the size or type of business your skill in business networking is essential.  You may be interested to know that this is true for Small Business owners and entrepreneurs.

Stop and think about it and you will understand why.  When you own your business, you are the business.  If you have other employees, usually, you are the heart and soul of your business.

No one knows your business better than you do and no one is as concerned with its success as you.  To keep your small business alive and growing, you have to avoid the temptation to stay in its four walls and get out in the world create a network of affiliations and bonds. 

 If you have passed the crucial five year mark and are engaged in growing your Small Business, your network is important to your growth and to fending off the bad times and the emergencies you can not see coming. 

For the Small Business owner, the community circle is important, but that does not mean she should forget the bigger picture.  Let’s consider some of the networking opportunities available in the community.  First, you should think about joining the Chamber of Commerce or Rotary Club in your community. 

In addition, if you have established your business successfully and you have a little time to invest while your employees cover your small businessfront or operation, you may also want to run for the town board or some local legislature position that will give you some visibility. 

Create your network by sponsoring youth sports teams, donating reasonable amounts to local charities and events like the ‘Relay for Life’ cancer walk held in most communities yearly.Donate products or services for raffle in community street fairs, school and holiday fairs and other events. 

Another way to get visibility and build your next level network is to partner with other business people in your community.Look for complementary services or products and offer to give a discount to customers from these companies. 

Offer to carry your partner’s coupons or discounts in your small business, if they will carry your coupons or business cards in THEIR small business. Remember, loyalty comes from a personal bond. 

So, help wherever you can and allow the other businesses and people in your community to know you on personally.You would be surprised how, and when, you might use these contacts if you need support or help. 

A local landmark restaurant in our area employed the same wait staff for twenty five years.  They were well-loved as business people and had a great reputation in the community.  When their restaurant burned to the ground a few months ago, other businesses and local restaurants stepped in (competitors, no less) to employ their staff so they would have jobs until the business could rebuild. 

You should take a look at your local phone book or search online and find professional and other types of services.  Call these business owners and get to know them.You will build a network of insurance agents, lawyers, doctors, printers, silk screen and sign makers, carpenters, plumbers, craftsman and others who can help you with services and advice when your business needs a hand. 

Think about the contacts in the OUTER circle and those that belong to YOUR contacts in YOUR network.  They are bound to be of help when you need a referral or advice. 

Judging from personal experience with you, and the knowledge of your professionalism, skill and reputation, your network contacts are likely to give you a recommendation.