Connecting in February: business and personal??

February 14th is Valentine’s day, making February the perfect month to (re)connect and improve your relationships. Not just on a personal level, but also professional. This is your moment to strengthen existing business relationships, make new connections, and grow your network.

In this newsletter we give you practical tips and inspiration to give your business both a personal and a professional boost!

?? New customers? Build trust

Attracting new customers requires a personal touch and sometimes a lot of patience. Showcase what makes your business unique, and build trust. But how do you do this?

• Share valuable content on social media, such as tips, successes, or a look behind the scenes. If you show your expertise, it will increase interest.
• Organise a webinar or workshop where you share some of your knowledge for free. This is a good way to meet future clients. And again, to show your expertise.
• Ask feedback from your current customers. Satisfied customers are your best ambassadors, but unsatisfied customers can help you improve your service!
• Step away from your laptop and make personal contact. Call a potential customer instead of emailing them, or pay them a visit in person. A face-to-face conversation often makes a stronger and better lasting impression. And it builds a relationship much faster than any online communication.

With a personal touch, both on and offline, you show potential customers that you are committed and trustworthy.

?? Networking: invest in relationships

Maintaining your network is at least as important as expanding it. Have you dedicated any time to your business contacts this month? Here are some ideas:

• Schedule a coffee date with an old acquaintance in your network. A quick catch-up might lead to new opportunities.
• Attend a network meeting in your area or industry. This is a low-threshold way to meet new people who can add value to your network.
• Use online platforms to strengthen your connections. A message with an update or an interesting article can go a long way to improve your visibility among your acquaintances.

A strong network provides not only knowledge and support, but also potential clients and opportunities to collaborate.

?? Valentine’s Day: show your appreciation

Valentine's Day is not all about love: it’s also about showing appreciation. To your loved ones, your customers, employees, and your business partners.? Use this day to show that you appreciate them!

Tip 1: Send a personalised card thanking them for their support or cooperation.

Tip 2: Offer a special Valentine's Day promotion, such as a discount or extra service, to surprise your existing customers.

Tip 3: Share a message on social media expressing your appreciation to your team or partners.

Small gestures often make a big difference. This way, you not only strengthen your relationships, but also your image as a committed entrepreneur and employer.

?? Connect your business with compliance

As a business owner, it is important to not only be strong in your relationships, but also in your legal obligations. Laws and regulations are the basis for a reliable and transparent business. Complying with them not only builds consumer trust, but it also strengthens the connection with your business partners and employees.

• Ensure a fair working environment by providing proper working conditions and complying with the Dutch labour laws (arboregels).
• Connect your customers to your business by being transparent in your privacy statement about your privacy policy and how your properly proces personal data (GDPR).
• Keep your business records up to date and be aware of your relevant tax laws and filing deadlines so you can operate your business without worry.

By complying with the rules, you build a good foundation for your business and give customers and partners the confidence that they can count on you. Forming an important part of strengthening your business connections.

??? The key to success: connections

Whether it is showing your appreciation on Valentine's Day, strengthening your network, or building relationships with new customers: connections are the foundation of a successful business. Take some time this month to nurture and deepen your professional relationships. With small, targeted actions, you can achieve big results. Both personally and professionally.

Together, we grow stronger!

Do you have any topics you would like to see covered in our next newsletter? Great! We are open to suggestions. Send us a message with the topic that interests you, and who knows, you might see it featured in our next edition.

Want to stay up to date in March? Do not forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.

See you soon!