As an entrepreneur, networking, both online and off, is a wonderful way to build connections in your industry. It’s a great way to increase awareness for your business and to build your customer base and ultimately your profits. But you probably know that already. What you may not know is networking is also a great way to motivate yourself.
Here are five reasons why networking is such a great motivator:
1. Networking exposes you to other business leaders, entrepreneurs and motivated individuals.
Even if you don’t have a single competitive bone in your body, when you network online and offline, you’re going to be inspired by the energy, ideas and productivity you see in those around you. It gives you the unique ability to mingle with like-minded individuals who may have a different perspective, a different experience or a different story than you do.
2. Networking forces you to stay on your game.
When you put forth the effort to network, you’re going to have to be at your best. When you communicate with people, you want to put your best foot forward and make a positive impression. When people ask you what you do, you want to be ready, willing and able to give them an informational and inspirational elevator pitch. Because you just never know when you’re going to meet your next great business partner, a superior customer or an enthusiastic advocate of your business.
3. Networking motivates you to be prepared before you head to the event.
It forces you to think about your business, where it’s going, what your future plans are, and how you want to be perceived.
4. Networking is a great place to get inspired by other successful people.
We see them and think, “If they can do that, so can I.” We hear great ideas, product launches, marketing tactics and business strategies and we think, “I can do that!” Competition is very motivating!
5. Finally, networking both online and off makes us feel and act more professionally.
The simple act of being a professional makes us feel more professional. We start to feel less like a person who works at home in their pajamas and more like a business person, an entrepreneur, a CEO.
[tweetthis]Need a boost in your #motivation? #Networking Is a great motivator for #entrepreneurs[/tweetthis]
Your turn! What are other ways you find that networking helps you in your motivation and your business growth?
Deidra Miller
Administrative and Customer Service Consultant
