55 www.printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2023 - Issue 343 Clarity Software, and Printlogic to name a few. We all serve the same types of business but all with our own unique offerings. None of these would have been made possible had it not been for the power of networking. Personal Growth One of the greatest things you can take away from networking is the positive impact it can have on you. It can really improve your communication skills. Entering a situation where you practice the art of listening, become more confident speaking, and enhance how you convey your ideas will build your confidence. For me, one of the biggest takeaways and I think something we all search for in our work and personal lives more than ever nowadays is that sense of community. I think it’s important to surround yourself with like-minded people who have your back, who face similar challenges, and who can perhaps challenge you to explore differing perspectives can only be a good thing both for you and your business. In a world where it’s become easier to sit behind a desk and look for ways online to win new business, challenge yourself to get out and network more. I’m a huge fan of digital marketing and am envious of businesses these days that have access to the tools they have today but remember this, people buy from people. Nothing beats the strength of a relationship you can build in the flesh. Networking complemented with a strong digital marketing plan is extremely powerful, but networking done right can deliver so much value to you, your team, and your business. be attending or running three to four networking events each week. For a few years, this was my main marketing strategy and whilst I didn’t pick up business from every person I met at events, there weren’t many businesses in the central belt of Scotland who could say they hadn’t heard of my print company. Even if they were not in a position to need my services there and then, I was still making it as easy as possible for anyone who did want to engage with me. To this day, ten or so years later, I still have people reaching out because they remember me from a networking event back then. Collaboration & Partnerships Networking allows you to connect with other businesses that complement your offering. Ideally, businesses that serve the same audience that you target but with a different product or service. One of the best deals I did was on the back of my exhibiting at a small business exhibition in Manchester. I met two ladies who were setting up an extension to Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce called ‘Chamber Plus’ and they just happened to be on the lookout for a printer to partner up with to handle the marketing needs of their members. That one partnership went on to generate six figures in its first year. Collaborations and partnerships are still as important to me as ever. You’ll see me working with the likes of Tradeprint, VB Media, Trade Embroidery, Artworker, Flex4, To this day, ten or so years later, I still have people reaching out because they remember me from a networking event back then INDUSTRY TIPS / THE ONLINE PRINT COACH
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