Networking can feel a bit like a chore, right? You think of awkward small talk and handing out business cards. But what if I told you there’s a way to make networking fun and meaningful?
Let’s dive into heart-led networking, a strategy that helps you connect with others in a genuine way, especially as you grow your business to six or seven figures.
Meet Melissa Snow: The Queen of Networking
I’m thrilled to introduce Melissa Snow, who has built several successful businesses and is known as the queen of networking.
Melissa’s journey into entrepreneurship was unexpected. She started as a personal injury paralegal and stumbled into her first business when a colleague handed her clients. “Being an entrepreneur is fun!” she realized, and that excitement has driven her ever since.
After launching her first coaching business Powerful Women Rising in 2017, Melissa learned that building a business isn’t just about having clients; it’s about creating real connections. She transitioned into helping women grow their businesses through authentic relationships—what she calls “networking like a human.”
Why Networking Matters at Every Stage
As you grow your business, you might think networking isn’t necessary anymore. But that’s not true! Networking is essential throughout your entrepreneurial journey.
But when you reach that six or seven-figure mark, the way you network should change. It’s not about quantity; it’s about quality.
Melissa recalls when she moved to Colorado Springs and needed to meet people. She put herself out there by asking for invites to events, which led her to countless networking opportunities. At that stage, meeting people was her full-time job!
But as your business grows and you have employees to manage, your time becomes limited. You need to be strategic about how you network. This means focusing on the right events and the right people who can help you move forward.
Strategic Networking: How to Do It Right
So, how do you network strategically? Here are some key points:
- Be Intentional: Choose events where your ideal clients or partners will be.
- Fill Gaps in Your Network: Identify what’s missing in your connections. Maybe you need more social media experts or referral partners.
- Quality Over Quantity: Instead of attending every event, focus on those that align with your goals.
For example, if you’re a website designer who specializes in the construction industry, attending a construction conference makes more sense than a general networking event.
Finding Your Power Partners
Power partners are those individuals who complement your business—think of them as your go-to people for referrals or support. They could be fellow entrepreneurs in similar fields or even competitors!
Melissa loves networking with her competitors because it opens doors for collaboration and referrals. When someone needs help with something outside your expertise, you can refer them to someone else in your network who fits perfectly.
Building Authentic Relationships
At the heart of heart-led networking is building authentic relationships. It’s not just about finding clients; it’s about creating a supportive community around you. As Melissa points out, many entrepreneurs get so focused on attracting new clients that they forget to nurture existing relationships.
Remember, networking is not just about what others can do for you; it’s also about what you can offer them. Be open to sharing ideas and supporting each other.
Conclusion: Embrace Heart-Led Networking
In conclusion, heart-led networking is all about connecting genuinely with others while growing your business. By being intentional and focusing on building real relationships, you’ll create a powerful network that supports your journey.
So the next time you think about networking, remember: it’s not just about collecting contacts; it’s about creating connections that matter! Embrace this approach and watch your business thrive alongside meaningful relationships.
