.png)
What Does “Networking” Mean In Startup Terms?
Networking involves connecting with individuals and representatives of different startups, organizations, and brands. Yes, it is similar to social networking, but these startup connections are intended to assist your company's growth. Networking can be incredibly useful for many reasons.
Building relationships is the most vital part of any kind of networking. For startups, networking can help find opportunities for collaboration with other organizations. By having other startup representatives on your side as allies, your visibility will be increased, whether through a partnership or simply a repost on a networking site. Increased visibility will increase your reputation as a legitimate company.
Having connections with other startups is helpful in many different ways, as well. These connections will help you stay updated on what’s happening in the startup community. You can learn from other startups by using new resources they might introduce. Having a community means having support. This is crucial when you’re just beginning to grow your organization because it will help you build confidence. It is true what they say: confidence is key.
It’s important to remember that other startups also build confidence by connecting with you! The benefits of connection are mutual and plentiful.
Connecting with individuals is also vital to growing your startup's name. Clients want to work with organizations they trust. In getGFTD’s case, connecting with clients helps us increase the downloads and usage of our app and website. We would not be able to operate without clients. Company growth cannot be done without the loyalty of individuals using your product or services. That’s why making personal connections with individuals is essential to building your company.
Oxford Economics published a study on networking statistics. They found that 75% of customers prefer meeting company representatives face-to-face. 40% of all direct meetings end with a closed deal. This is a stark contrast to solely connecting with people online.
But, really, how do you network? Attend events where you can represent your organization at a table or a booth. Talk to strangers in public spaces. You never know who you will meet by chatting with the person in front of you in line for a coffee.
Use networking platforms! LinkedIn is the number one virtual business network. It is the best way to connect with people that you might not have the opportunity to meet face to face. LinkedIn is also a great place to post content and update clients on what is happening within your organization.
For other Marylanders like us, the Maryland Entrepreneur Hub can connect you with resources and other local organizations. They share opportunities to network and get you involved in the local business ecosystem.
If you’re not a Maryland startup, many other states and cities have a similar space for organization representatives. Dedicate time to research these opportunities local to you.
Social media is a great way to gain clientele and spread the word. Posting people using your products and services, sharing positive reviews, and demonstrating that real people are behind your startup’s face are great ways to grow your company without speaking to someone in person. Social media is also a wonderful way to gain clients who aren’t local to you.
To conclude, networking takes time and energy, so you must set aside time for it. Whether you are a business representative or an individual, growing your network will always help in the long run. Get creative with your connections; don’t get comfortable with a single way to network. To meet new people, you have to explore new places and spaces.
Network and connect with us!
getGFTD LinkedIn:
getGFTD email:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/importance-networking-startups-faysal/
https://www.score.org/resource/article/how-networking-can-help-you-get-your-startup-ground
https://www.cosmico.org/10-reasons-why-networking-is-important-for-business/
