How to Market Your Business
IN THIS LESSON
Networking is when you meet people to share information about yourself and your business.
It allows you to make connections with people who can help you grow your business and help you to succeed.
Meet New People
Networking is when you meet people to share information about yourself and your business. It allows you to make connections with people who can help you grow your business and help you to succeed.
Make the First Move
Look for networking opportunities in your community and social media. Always give people your business card or contact details and remember to be professional when introducing your business. Instead of saying heita or howzit, say good morning, day or evening.
Make a Good First Impression
Always arrive on time to events, dress well and smile. Introduce yourself instead of waiting for people to approach you and look at people when you talk to them.
If you’re going to be a business owner you’re going to have to learn how to network. Networking is a work skill but it’s also a social skill. You need to be able to slide your work jam into any conversation at any time, and get people excited about your ideas.
1. Communicate your passion. Hopefully your business is something that really inspires you. Talk about why you started your business, and why you find it meaningful, why it’s something the world needs.
2. Events. Events are an essential component of networking. The most important thing about events is to figure out who’s going to be there: and do your research. You don’t want to meet someone and ask them their name and later you find out, it’s the CEO of the most influential company in the world. You don’t have to have Wikipedia knowledge – just know the basics of who's gonna be there, what they do, and how it intersects with what YOU do.
3. LISTENING. This is key. Don’t be that person that talks someone into a corner because A: nobody wants to hang with that person and B: You’re not opening yourself up for meaningful discussion that could result in collaboration or work. Always listen more than you talk.
4. Relax. Business is as much about people and people skills as it is about work. If people start talking about their favourite movie or their family, go with it. Go with the flow! Networking is all about socialising in a focussed way, so don’t leave your social skills at the door. Look good, enjoy yourself, and be confident – and you’ll have networking in the bag in no time.
Find a Mentor
Find an experienced business person you can turn to for advice. This will help you to learn from their experiences. When you find a mentor, treat them with respect and show up on time for meetings. Keep the relationship professional.
Join a Business Organisation
There are a number of organisations that offer mentorship and networking opportunities. Try the following:
The Branson Centre for Entrepreneurship:
www.bransoncentre.org
011 403 0622.
The Raymond Ackerman Academy of Entrepreneurial Development offers a six-month, full-time programme in entrepreneurial development. You can only contact them through www.ackermanacademy.co.za
The South African Institute for Entrepreneurship helps by giving out books and learning materials to help them start and grow their businesses. The SAIE focuses in the education, agriculture, enterprise development and information technology industries. Contact them on www.entrepreneurship.co.za
and 021 447 2023.
The South African Women Entrepreneurs Network:
www.sawen.org.za
011 403 1048.
Lions Africa uses the internet to connect you to mentors. Visit them on www.lionsafrica.org
Always Follow Up
It’s important to follow up on conversations you start at networking events. Getting in touch with the person you want as your mentor shows that you're interested, invested and committed.
Important Things to Remember
Use social media to promote your business.
Promote your business at every opportunity you get.
Attend networking events.
Your business card must have your full contact details.
Help yourself grow by finding a mentor.
Approach organisations that offer mentorship.