By Meg Moss, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director
What is one business growth strategy that small and mid-size businesses should consider implementing this year? According to allBusiness online, increasing the use of networking opportunities came up three times in their top ten list.
The Sanford Area Growth Alliance – Chamber of Commerce to the rescue! The Chamber of Commerce offers business networking opportunities several times each month and has proven to be a successful method for businesses to grow and succeed. But don’t take my word for it. Here are a few testimonials from our Chamber members:
Wendy Bryan, Executive Director of Sanford’s Tourism Development Authority states that “the Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce hosts outstanding meetings and events each month that allow members to network, promote their businesses, and stay apprised of community initiatives. The Chamber makes our community stronger by helping us to connect”
“The Chamber provides wonderful opportunities to connect with other businesses and professionals in the area. I have made so many connections in the community as a direct result of being a part of the Chamber and their events.” states Heather Garrity from the Partnership for Children and Families.
“(The Chamber) is an active organization that provides lots of opportunities to not only network with other business owners and community leaders, (but) it has also been a great source for information to help a business grow.” according to Belflex Staffing Network’s Business Development Manager, Brenda Clegg.
And, not to toot our own horn, but Elizabeth Colebrook from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Carolina shared “The Sanford Area Chamber of Commerce is a great support system for Lee County’s thriving business community, has a rockstar team of professional staff, great membership benefits, and provides unique opportunities to network and expand your business.”
Wow! What amazing businesses we have that take advantage of the networking opportunities afforded to our members.
Let’s look at networking from a national perspective as well. allBusiness online spoke with several businesses from around the country, and here is what they had to say about the power of networking:
“Attending networking events is a tried-and-true growth approach that will never go out of style. Networking and attending events are two effective techniques to increase brand awareness, authority in an area, and, ultimately, your consumer base.” states Oliver Andrews of OA Design Services.
Edward Mellett from WikiJob says “I strongly advise you not to overlook the main trend of 2022: networking! Instead of growing alone, small company owners can double their efforts by interacting with other business owners. Networking allows you to obtain business lead referrals, hear new market insights, learn from the experiences of others, hone your game and pitch, and team up and establish partnerships that motivate and drive each other’s success.”
Is your business a member of the Sanford Area Chamber? If not, let’s talk! Please reach out to me via phone at 919-775-7341 x1502 or email at mmoss@growsanfordnc.com.