Networking is a crucial element in the world of small business owners. That’s why I wanted to go over the importance and benefits of networking. Then I’ll go over some networking opportunities, essentials and best practices to get you going!

Benefits of Networking

Networking with fellow agents, vendors and other business owners can really help you grow your business and expand your reach. Whether it’s client referrals, partnerships, speaking or writing opportunities; networking can help connect you with people who can help you grow your business. Looking for more specifics on how networking can benefit you? Here you go!

• Receive referrals which ultimately increasing your sales

• Receive advice from like-minded people – learning tips and tricks from others can help you save time, money or both!

• Raise your profile – Attending events on a regular basis increase your exposure, ultimately raising your profile and helping you gain new customers

• Increase your confidence - Like anything, practice makes perfect! The more you attend networking events and engage with people, the more confident you’ll become and the better you’ll feel.

• Trade goods and services with other small business owners - it is a win win!

• Networking with vendors can help you learn selling points, product information and if you’re ever in a bind, it is always good to have someone to call

• Make friends! You never know how those connections will help you in the future.

Finding Networking Events

Attending networking events on a regular basis is important. Not sure where to look for local networking events? Here are a few ideas to get you started!

• Check with your local American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) chapter! Even though you might not have a membership with them, they do allow non-members to attend events for a small fee.

• Participate in online forums. Most host agencies offer some sort of an online community where you can go to meet fellow agents and seek advice. Facebook also offers many private groups that agents can join as well. Travel Quest has an online forum and private Facebook group for our agents!

• Become a member of MeetUp.com. This is an awesome site where you can start or join local networking and small business groups in your area.

• Attend small business expos and other conferences. Travel Quest National Meeting is held annually in Minneapolis, MN and we also have Regional events hosted around the country.

• Become a member of your local Chamber of Commerce.

Tips for Successful Networking

The thought of attending your first few networking events may seem daunting but don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many people struggle the first few times out of the gate when walking into a room full of strangers and having to introduce yourself. We’ve put together a list of best practices to help you out!

• Bring plenty of business cards

• Be on time. Better yet, be early!

• Don’t forget to SMILE! Not only will it make you look friendly and approachable, it will also help calm your nerves

• Ask for a card from every person you meet - you never know who you might want to contact later

• Think of open ended questions (see below for ideas!)

• Dress appropriately - if there isn’t a dress code specified, business casual is a good safe bet.

• Turn off your ringer - you don’t want to be the person whose phone goes off in the middle of a speech.

• Don’t automatically add people to your mailing list. Make sure you get their permission.

• Follow up with those you meet. Sending a thank you note within 48 hours of the event is recommended. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Let them know you enjoyed meeting them and bring up something you two chatted about. This will show them that you’re both interested and available.

Keep the Conversation Going

Making conversation and knowing what to ask people can be just as terrifying as walking through that door. I’ve found that having a few questions prepared eases my anxiety and makes my interactions a lot more engaging and meaningful. The people you chat with will appreciate you taking the time to ask quality questions instead of the usual “Where are you from? What do you do?”. Here are some example questions to help you get started!

• How did you get started in the _____ industry?

• What made you decided to enter this field?

• What did you do in your previous life?

• What do you enjoy most about your job?

• What is the funniest/strangest request you have received?

Hopefully you were able to pick up some good tidbits on networking to get you started. The hardest part is going to that first event. I recommend doing some research, find an event that interests you and commit. Once you get that first event under your belt, you’ll be more prepared for the next event and can adjust how you do things to your style for the next event.
Happy networking!