Networking is a Garden

Networking is a Garden
By Amy Boyd

Networking is like planting and tending a garden. As a small business owner you can choose to play it safe and stay in your comfort zone, but just like a garden that is shaded and protected the business cannot grow to its full potential. Networking is a way to bring your small business out into the warmth of the sun and succulence of the rain so it can establish a strong root system, spread its leaves and grow into an abundant garden with substance.

Think of the business cards you give out and receive from others as seeds and seedlings that help you establish your garden. Attending regular networking events lets you water those seeds as you build relationships with the individuals that you meet. Without a regular supply of water a garden will wither and die.

Your business also needs nutrients and fertilizing just as you need to feed a garden. Setting up meetings, having coffee or lunch with individuals you have met through networking events not only helps you learn more about the other individual’s business, but it gives you an opportunity to tell them more about your business. Asking and answering questions helps clarify your business and theirs so that you learn how you can work together to grow each other’s business.

Weeding is also essential to the health of your garden. As you gather business cards from other individuals you may find that you have so many cards it’s a little overwhelming, just like the weeds choking your garden. Sort though your cards identifying those that are ideal strategic partners or provide services you and your business may need. Toss out any cards that just take up space and provide no value to your business.

Topics presented at many networking events are like adding ladybugs to your garden. They help keep your garden healthy and free of various forms of parasites, whether it’s establishing a personal brand, wading through complex employment law, or optimizing your website. And don’t forget the butterflies. These are individuals that may not work directly with you or your business, but they have had the opportunity to get to know you at the networking events and are out there germinating your plants by telling others about you and your business.

So come to the next NAWBO-IE meeting and help your garden grow.By Amy Boyd

Networking is like planting and tending a garden. As a small business owner you can choose to play it safe and stay in your comfort zone, but just like a garden that is shaded and protected the business cannot grow to its full potential. Networking is a way to bring your small business out into the warmth of the sun and succulence of the rain so it can establish a strong root system, spread its leaves and grow into an abundant garden with substance.

Think of the business cards you give out and receive from others as seeds and seedlings that help you establish your garden. Attending regular networking events lets you water those seeds as you build relationships with the individuals that you meet. Without a regular supply of water a garden will wither and die.

Your business also needs nutrients and fertilizing just as you need to feed a garden. Setting up meetings, having coffee or lunch with individuals you have met through networking events not only helps you learn more about the other individual’s business, but it gives you an opportunity to tell them more about your business. Asking and answering questions helps clarify your business and theirs so that you learn how you can work together to grow each other’s business.

Weeding is also essential to the health of your garden. As you gather business cards from other individuals you may find that you have so many cards it’s a little overwhelming, just like the weeds choking your garden. Sort though your cards identifying those that are ideal strategic partners or provide services you and your business may need. Toss out any cards that just take up space and provide no value to your business.

Topics presented at many networking events are like adding ladybugs to your garden. They help keep your garden healthy and free of various forms of parasites, whether it’s establishing a personal brand, wading through complex employment law, or optimizing your website. And don’t forget the butterflies. These are individuals that may not work directly with you or your business, but they have had the opportunity to get to know you at the networking events and are out there germinating your plants by telling others about you and your business.

So come to the next NAWBO-IE meeting and help your garden grow.