The Power of Local Networking: How to Leverage Your Business Community

At Maitland Business Chamber, our mission is to support the growth and success of local businesses in the Maitland region. One of the most powerful ways to supercharge your business is connecting with local entrepreneurs, sharing valuable information and being supported in the tough times.

Striking up a conversation with strangers is not something that all people find easy. The good news is networking is a learned skill, and the more you do it, the better you’ll become.

Benefits of networking for small businesses

Networking is a powerful tool for expanding your professional circle, exchanging ideas, and uncovering new business opportunities. By cultivating meaningful relationships with local customers, prospects, industry peers, and community stakeholders, you can foster collaboration, partnerships, and most importantly, growth. We share three reasons why networking can be hugely beneficial to your business.

Increased visibility

Local networking events and online platforms offer a great way to introduce your business to potential customers and partners in your area. Remember, word of mouth is still one of the most effective marketing methods.

Referrals and partnerships

As a business owner, you are the wearer of many hats. One minute you might be creating content for social media and the next you’re submitting your Business Activity Statement. Building strong relationships with other local businesses can lead to valuable referrals and collaborative partnerships. Who knows, you might meet an accountant who specialises in helping small business owners at your next networking event.

Mentorship and support

Running a business can be lonely. Many business owners, while surrounded by supportive friends and family, can still feel isolated and like those close to them don’t understand their challenges. Networking can connect you with experienced business owners who can offer advice, guidance, support, or just a much-needed catch-up over coffee.

How to network effectively

There’s no denying networking can feel icky if done badly. Going in too strong can scare off a potential contact, and standing back can lead to missed opportunities. We’re sharing how to network effectively because gone are the days of thrusting your business card at someone. Networking today is all about understanding how you can add value without wasting your (or their) time.

Attend local events

Make it a point to attend industry-specific events, business mixers, and chamber meetings. Engage in conversations, share your insights, and seek opportunities to contribute value to your connections. Attending local Maitland events provides opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and build relationships with people who understand your unique challenges. At MBC, we host regular networking events for local business owners. See our upcoming events here.

Be Proactive

Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Take the initiative to introduce yourself to others and start conversations. Do your best to remember people’s names and quickly move beyond the ‘What do you do?’ question. Be yourself and be genuinely interested in others. People are more likely to want to do business with someone they like and trust.

Leverage social media

Social media success doesn’t require learning elaborate dance moves or spending energy on creating reels. Find out which platform your audience and peers spend most of their time and put your energy into that. Local community groups on Facebook are a valuable way to connect with other local businesses and share information.

Follow up

After meeting someone new, be sure to follow up with a personalised email or phone call. Make good on your promise to share resources or lock in that future coffee date. Doing so will help jog their memory and strengthen your connection.

Join business organisations

Membership in local business organisations can give you access to networking events, resources, and support. At Maitland Business Chamber, we’re here to support you on your journey to success. If you’re not already a member, discover the benefits of joining us today! Find out more here.

What’s on the MBC calendar 

By now you know that to build a strong network, it’s helpful to actively participate in industry events, conferences, workshops, and networking gatherings. Engaging in conversations, sharing your insights, and seeking opportunities to contribute value can help you feel less alone and contribute to your success. With that in mind, we have two events coming up that you might be interested in:

By attending local events and learning how to network effectively, you can position your small business for continued success and growth.

Not currently a Maitland Business Chamber member? Discover the benefits here.