Now more than ever "who you know" is as important as "what you know". Small businesses can realize huge results by leveraging the power of the owner's social network. Most people don't realize how many people they are actually connected to and how valuable those connections can be. Here are some thoughts on leveraging your social network for success as a small business.
Let your friends know you are open for business. Many small businesses owners miss out on opportunities because they don't want to "impose upon their friends" and ask them to patronize their business. While I agree that doing business with friends can sometimes be a little sensitive, you probably have a large network of friends and "friends of friends" who could potentially be using your services and telling others how great you are. Think of it this way: You are providing great value. You have put your heart and soul into your business. You are proud of what you do. Your friends deserve to benefit from all of those things. Let them know what you do and how you can help them.
Ask for referrals. People need to know how valuable referrals are to your business. My doctor, dentist, accountant and real estate agent all came to me through referrals. Let everyone know that your business grows because people endorse your services.
Hand out business cards. Don't be afraid to give out your business card to anyone and everyone. That's why you have them. Your business contact information should not be a secret. Give your cards to friends and acquaintance. When you do, say something like "give me a call if there is ever something I can help you with". This makes a personal connection and people are more likely to remember you.
Get on the Internet. If you don't have a web site (or if your web site stinks) you are missing out on an opportunity. Many people will want to "check you out" before they do business with you. Give them the opportunity to do so. Develop a site with some good information on your business and the services you provide. This will enhance your credibility and it will also reinforce your brand in the minds of potential customers.
Friendships are valuable. The people you know should be your greatest asset as you develop your business. Give them every opportunity to help you. As long as you are providing great value, don't be afraid to leverage your social network for the benefits it can provide.
David Lorenzo has more than 20 years of business experience as a successful corporate executive, entrepreneur, strategist, author, and speaker. He has worked with and mentored some of the world's most successful businesspeople while helping lead many large organizations to unprecedented success. His latest book is titled: Career Intensity: Business Strategy for Workplace Warriors and Entrepreneurs.
Mr. Lorenzo's experience in starting new business enterprises and repositioning under-performing business units, along with his ability to implement innovative performance improvement solutions, makes him one of today's most sought-after trusted advisors.
Mr. Lorenzo is a participant in the Wharton Fellows Program at the University of Pennsylvania, a management think tank that meets regularly to analyze and address timely business issues. He received his MBA from the Lubin School of Business at Pace University, and he received a Masters of Science in Strategic Communications from Columbia University in New York City.
Dave's blog is http://www.careerintensity.com/blog.
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