April 1, 2022
Business 101: The Power of Networking
Krista Beavers

Date: April 1, 2022

March is finally over (does it feel like the longest month to you, too?), and spring is officially here! One of my favorite things about spring — besides my birthday — is the chance to do some really good spring cleaning.


Does that make me weird? Maybe. But that's how I roll.


Spring cleaning feels like a fresh new start. Like taking back control of my home and outdoor living space. It's cathartic. It gives me a sense of security and peace. And it just makes me happy when my surroundings are uncluttered, clean, and sparkling.


It brings me joy. (Thanks, Marie Kondo!)


Actually, Marie makes a clear distinction between tidying and cleaning. She says,

“Tidying is the act of confronting yourself. Cleaning is the act of confronting dirt.”


Either way, spring cleaning in all its aspects brings me great satisfaction and happiness.


Knowing this about me, is it any wonder that I founded Guardian Accounting Inc, where we help businesses keep their accounting and bookkeeping clean and tidy? Now, onto our success tip….


SUCCESS TIP OF THE MONTH

Networking is crucial to boosting your brand's visibility.

Becoming visible is something every business strives to do, and with billions (estimated to be $322 billion spent by 2024) spent every year on advertising, it is important to be wise with how you approach your business and personal branding.

 

I am not suggesting that you need to have your logo wrapped on the next NASCAR Cup Series race at the Daytona 500, nor do you need to spend $6.5 million on a 30-second Super Bowl commercial, but there are things that are a lot more cost-effective yet yield business visibility.

 

In an article called “7 Ways to Increase Visibility for Your Small Business,” written by Shout Out UK in September 2021, they state to BUILD A NETWORK. Now isn’t that a cost-effective way to bring visibility to you or your business?!


Here is a link to read the full article (https://www.shoutoutuk.org/2021/09/17/7-ways- to-increase-visibility-for-your-small-business), but that tip reads:

“As a small business, networking is crucial in boosting your brand’s visibility. It also helps give you an idea of what other companies in your industry are doing and how you can fill the gaps to serve your clients better.

 

You can start by connecting with other small businesses in your area. You can also get in touch with others online or attend business events near you. Networking with other companies will allow you to learn from them and identify the similar challenges you face and how you can solve them.

 

One great networking tip is to listen more so you can ask the right questions and not appear interested in talking only about yourself. Who knows, this could even birth a formidable partnership that will yield great rewards for your business.” 

 

This is GREAT stuff!! Full transparency, and visibility is difficult at first, but I promise it gets easier with each step. I used to hide in the corner at networking events praying that no one spoke to me, but that was my issue right there ... WHY GO if I didn’t want to meet people and network?!

 

The old adage is still relevant: “Everyone is only three people from the person you need to know.” Understand that everyone knows someone who needs your product or service, but if you aren’t visible how are those that need you going to find you?

 

I’ve come a long way since I started my business. I am still a work in progress ... but I am excited for some new visibility efforts that I am currently in the works on for 2022.


How can I help?

 

I hope you've enjoyed this business tip. Let me know how I can help you further. With gratitude and thanks,

Krista Beavers, Guardian Accounting, Inc