I struggled to find the time to network while running my business but let me tell you what it's done for me by making it a priority. When you’re running a small business, it can sometimes feel like you’re going it alone. You’ve got your business plan, a great product or service, and a deep understanding of your market. But there’s one crucial piece of the puzzle that you might be overlooking: networking.
Let's get into it.
A team of supporters
Let’s face it: being a small business owner can be really hard sometimes. There are days when everything seems to be going wrong, and it can get lonely. So, having a group of like-minded entrepreneurs who understand what you’re going through is incredibly valuable. They can offer advice, share their own experiences, and give you a boost when you need it.
Opportunities Are Everywhere
One of the best things about networking is the way it opens doors to new opportunities. Whether it’s meeting a potential business partner, learning about a fresh trend in your industry, or getting the inside scoop on a lucrative contract, networking can put you in the right place at the right time.
For example, picture yourself at a local business event. You strike up a conversation with someone, and next thing you know, you’re discussing a possible collaboration or getting a referral for a big client. These kinds of opportunities don’t just fall into your lap—they come from the connections you make. I've made countless connections which have led to many referrals of work and likewise I refer others to their businesses because I want to help support them as much as they support me.
Boosting Your Reputation and Visibility
A strong network can do wonders for your reputation. The more you engage with others, share your expertise, and contribute to conversations, the more people will start to see you as a go-to person in your field. This trust and credibility can attract clients, partners, and even investors to help you grow your business.
My own experience - The Glasglow Girls Club
I've been a member of The Glasglow Girls Club for years and years now and it's still my absolute No1 that I recommend to everyone I know who is running a small business. They offer so much value from training to co-working and of course networking. I've made some of the most amazing connections and friendships and I've also hired people to help me with my own business.
As a diamond member I get some extra added value like being able to post into the main group about my businesses everyday, Instagram story takeover, blog post editor, live group expert, listing on our directory and app, option to run an offer and competitions to the members. Not only that but 2x email takeovers and a Glowgetters live interview at the Glow Club instagram. Option of a pinned post in the main GGC group for 2 days per quarter plus 40% off additional advertising. Not too shabby and absolutely worth the money!
There is also an accountability and growth group which is great for growing the business and helping you achieve your goals and by doing this you start to widen your net and get to know other business owners too.
I asked Laura, the founder of the Glasglow Girls Club, what the GGC was all about. Here's what she said: "I first founded the Glasglow Girls Club (GGC) community back in July 2016 with a simple yet powerful vision: to create a space where women could connect, empower, and inspire one another. At the heart of GGC is the belief that genuine connections can transform lives—both personally and professionally. I wanted to build a community that celebrates the strength and potential of women by bringing them together to share experiences, learn from each other, and grow in a supportive environment.
Our free community quickly took off, attracting thousands of women who were eager to connect and support each other. This incredible response led me to expand our offerings by creating the social and business club memberships. These memberships provide even more value to our members through an array of free workshops, events, and resources designed to foster both personal and professional growth.
When it comes to connecting women this has always been at the heart of everything we do. With the Glow Club Networking, this is more than just exchanging business cards; it's about building relationships that lift our members up and open doors to new opportunities. Through GGC, we celebrate the power of networking because it's through these connections that we find mentors, collaborators, and also lifelong friends (we have members who have travelled the world together!).
Every event, conversation, and shared moment in our community is a step towards creating a stronger, more connected network of women and I truly believe, we all rise the'gether!"
If you'd like to know more you can look at joining here the membership is opened for new members right now too (affiliate link)!
Networking isn’t just about shaking hands or collecting business cards—it’s about building real, meaningful relationships that can help your business grow. For small business owners, these connections can lead to new opportunities, a solid support system, valuable knowledge, and greater visibility for your brand. So if you aren't using networking as part of your marketing and growth plan I suggest you do. Maybe we'll see each other at a GGC event soon!
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