The benefits of networking – the importance of having connections and a network.

The old saying ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know,’ is as relevant today in business and in life, as it’s ever been.

While having the necessary knowledge and skills is undoubtedly important, in many cases, having a strong network of professional and personal connections can be much more valuable. This is because business is still done ‘face-to-face’ and by building?relationships with people we know, like and trust. Most people still rely on recommendations and referrals from others when making important decisions, including making purchases, hiring new employees, selecting business partners, or choosing service providers.

When you’re in business, as an entrepreneur, or looking for investors or partners to collaborate with, having a network of connections who can introduce you to the right people can be crucial to your success.

And being part of an established network, with ingrained core values and a framework where its members care about each other and want to do business together, creates a successful and prosperous community; a community where you can grow your business with expert advice, get more referrals due to the size of your network and connections, and leverage those connections for more leads and referrals.?District32 has witnessed this first-hand in its eight years of providing a networking platform, and CEO Lorraine Garvie, says, ‘it’s the members' passion to support each other that builds business growth for everyone in the network.’

So why is being part of an established networking group so good for business?

·????????You are supported

Every business owner has been through a similar journey whether you began as a start-up sole operator or leapt into buying a profitable business with a hundred employees, everyone had to start somewhere.?The businesses leaders within an established network understand what you’re going through on your business journey.?They’ve all made mistakes and learnt along the way.?The group, as a whole, can support you with whatever you’re going through, as they have likely been in your shoes at some point. The community stands together to support each other. ?

·????????Great opportunities to learn from highly experienced peers

One of the primary benefits of being part of a networking community is the opportunity to learn from others. By connecting with people who have experience and expertise, either in your field and industry, or outside of it, you can gain valuable insights and information to help you improve your leadership skills, identify new opportunities, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments. Through conversations with other professionals, you can learn about best practices, industry standards, and new approaches to solving problems.

Being part of the community also provides individuals with access to different perspectives and ideas. By connecting with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and industries, you can gain new perspectives on common challenges and develop creative solutions to complex problems. The exchange of ideas and perspectives can lead to innovative thinking and new ways of approaching problems, which can give your business a competitive edge.

·????????More leads and referrals from people who know, like and trust you

When you build relationships, and people get to know who you are and what you do, they are more likely to refer you to others.?It really is as simple as that, though it does take work ensuring you establish and maintain good relationships.?Being part of an established network though, the values within your community mean that you will already have established ‘trust’ to a certain point, as you are part of an exclusive network.?This means leads and referrals will increase organically.

By leveraging the resources, connections, and expertise of other members, businesses can expand their reach, increase their visibility, and develop new opportunities for growth and success.

·???????Vetted service providers for you and your clients

Similarly, as part of the networking community, you will have access to service providers who you know will provide a good service.?Why??Because they are part of a trusted community who refer business to each other.?They want to maintain a good reputation (as will you), so the service they provide within the group will be of the highest level.?That’s what a strong business networking community creates.

·????????Rub shoulders with inspiring business owners and industry experts

You’ve probably heard the saying, ‘if you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.’?Being part of a business networking community, you have access to everyone in the network.?Inspirational and motivational people will add inspiration and motivation to you and your business.?When you are part of a group of individuals with the same goal, to learn and grow their business and create long-standing relationships, the values within the group will allow you to learn from and leverage your connections.

·????????Uncapped opportunities for growth

Imagine being able to access, not just your network, but the network of everyone in your community. For example, members of the District32 community are connected through the District32 network of over 400 businesses, but each of those business owners has a network of their own.?When you establish relationships within the community, you have access to?exponential opportunities.?Contacts won’t just refer you within your own network, but when you provide excellent service and maintain a good relationship, they will refer you on to anyone who needs your product or service.?If you are top of mind, you will be referred, and that can lead to endless possibilities. Business owners in the District32 community have made connections, built relationships, gained contacts and done business nationally, and internationally, based on referrals from people they know within the network.

·????????Access talent

Being part of a business growth community allows you access to industry experts and talented individuals. It stands to reason, that in a networking community, you will have talented business owners, from all walks of life.?Need a coach or mentor??You’re sure to find one in your network! Need a lawyer, accountant, insurance provider or investor??Your network may be able to provide you access to some of the most awarded businesses in your local area.?District32’s network contains a myriad of businesses with awards at the highest level. And if you are part of their network, there’s likely no waiting in line to access their in-demand services. It stands to reason, the bigger your network, the better your access to exceptional talent.

In summary, networking is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth, as it provides individuals with the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of people who can share their experiences, knowledge, and perspectives. In addition to providing new insights and perspectives, networking can also lead to new opportunities. When you want to grow your business, your network and yourself, choose an established networking community that can take your connections to the next level.?

District32 is a networking community that exists to support business growth, exponential results and strategic shortcuts, to get your business from good to booming, faster,?by leveraging The Power of Connection and building strong, lasting relationships.

Reach out at any time. [email protected]. You are welcome to attend any of our business growth events - we have platforms for all-sized businesses.