The Power of Networking

For a small business owner, the importance and power of networking cannot be overstated. Networking is an effective and inexpensive way of connecting with people who could become your clients, support systems and referral network.

So what exactly is “networking”? It’s actually pretty simple—it involves talking with others about what you do, and listening to them in return to find out how you can help them. Most people you meet could be a potential client or a valuable contact. Learn to make small talk. Practice being able to articulate what you do in clear, easily understandable, memorable and concise way. Tell people about yourself, and don’t be shy about telling them how they can help you grow your business. In return, be a good listener, and ask how you can help them in the same way.

I have been incredibly fortunate for the last fifteen years to be part of one of the greatest networking groups in our area—the Women's Business Network of the Wellesley Chamber of Commerce (“WBN”). I joined WBN when I first started my suburban solo practice in 1993, worked on committees, chaired the group for three years, and have remained an active member to this day. There has been no better source of direct business, referral business and resources for my needs than WBN. I have made fabulous business connections and incredible friendships, and I can honestly say that WBN has been one of the best and most consistent sources of opportunity for me over the past fifteen years. The group continues to thrive and attract new members, but of course we always hope for more. Thanks to the efforts and talent of Deb Beck at Studio 18 Group (http://www.studio18group.com), WBN has produced a wonderful marketing piece profiling several of the active members. I am honored to say I was chosen as one of them, and I proudly share that piece with you here.




If you are a business person and are not doing any networking, now is the time to start. If you are a woman in business in the Metro West area, check out WBN by contacting the Wellesley Chamber of Commerce (http://www.wellesleychamber.org) —you can’t go wrong.