Networking is key
By Vernalee
One of the essential criteria to achieving success, particularly for small businesses is networking.
Looking for the next project/client; keeping your company’s name visibly afloat; and staying before your prospective buying audience help to achieve positive marketing / business development efficiencies.
Depending on the size of your business and/or your financial resources, you – (even if you are the President/CEO ) may have to directly assume the responsibility of being your Chief Marketing Officer as well. As Dr. Maya Angelou says, “Nothing works unless you do!”
Thus, with that in mind, let’s look at marketing/business development techniques that may assist you to deliver successful outcomes.
1. Registrations with numerous governmental agencies/community organizations that will automatically forward you bid announcements are key elements of notification. If your company is certified as a MBE, FBE, DBE, EDGE, or in any recognized certification category – make sure that your company products/services are accurately slotted by NAISC codes.
2. Attendance at selected small business conferences and trade shows will extend your marketing reach and maximize your business development efforts. (Please visit my site at www.vernalee.com for tips on networking and marketing at events and trade-shows.)
3. Memberships and participation in Professional Associations will strengthen and extend your network.
4. Attendance at Procurement Fairs is always beneficial. You can never assume that just because you are known in your specialty area that you need to discontinue or lessen your marketing efforts.
In conclusion, nothing beats networking attached to a mandatory follow up system. Sound marketing planning will yield positive and hopefully profitable results.
Remember, no one can sell your company better than you. Don’t sell yourself short!
Vernalee is a respected entrepreneur in Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio. As President of Lee Enterprises Ltd., she helps her clients achieve success in the marketing, business development, and communications areas. Lee is also a freelance writer for a number of publications. Soon to be released are her books, “I’m Doing Me” and “Stuff we talk about.” Follow Vernalee at
www.vernalee.com and www.stuffwetalkabout.com. She can be reached at verna@vernalee.com.
