Help, I have to network!
As an entrepreneur you should network. At least, that's what you think when you start. Is that the case now? And if so, what do you do and which networks are good for you?
I too was just after my start in 1994 at my very first network meeting, organized by the Chamber of Commerce. I have nicely shared my business cards and introduced myself nicely. Then I 'finally' came into contact with someone from the House and had already thought in advance that this was a good organization for me as an entrepreneur to get to know more.
Full of interest, the best man asked what I was doing as an entrepreneur and then shared my dream about helping entrepreneurs with financial problems. Then it was my chance to ask what the House actually did for this target group. 'Mevrouwtje Zuidweg, we are only here for the successful entrepreneurs…. Dream on, I thought, my time will come! '.
I turned out to be right about that afterwards and luckily the Chamber of Commerce has also kept up with the times and assists the entrepreneur if things are going badly!
Even though it was 1e network meeting not an immediate success, I am definitely in favor of networking. It is good to make yourself visible and often you get the opportunity to hold up a beautiful mirror. In short, you always come wiser from the market than you go there.
Best tip I can give regarding the networks you can be part of? Find the clubs that suit you, so with entrepreneurs you feel comfortable with, themes that appeal to you and times that suit you. For example, breakfast clubs are not an option for me, because I prefer to eat breakfast with my family and bitterball balls are not for me, since I do not like bitterballen 😉
In addition to organized clubs, there are certainly people in your area, with whom you spontaneously create your own sparring partners. For example, I have my own 'old men's club' that meet every week in my gym and are always interested in my ins and outs. Since these gentlemen are already far above any retirement age, I get many wise advice from a completely different angle than mine. I have benefited a lot in recent years!
The very best sparring partners are just sitting at home: my two daughters. They see and feel me flawlessly and when they say: Mom take it easy and not be so stressed, then I always know that they are right….
jacqueline
See my LinkedIn profile for the networks I'm connected to.