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Creating a Network that
Works!
by Diane Hughes
May 4, 2002
Do you ever stand in awe of
those people who seem to know everybody and everything? I know
I do! Regardless of what you're looking for, these people have
their finger on the pulse of the 'Net and know where to find
it. Their network of resources and people is incredible! Yours
can be, too. It's actually very simple to create a network that
works to bring you
business, offers feedback and provides those resources that we
all need to have.
Make A Wish List
The first step in creating
a network that works is making a list of what you want. Go ahead,
think of the perfect situation where you would have anything
you needed at your fingertips. For example, if you have a Web
design business you might find it very helpful to create associations
with people who offer services
that compliment yours. Why? Because if these people are heavily
involved with the process of getting a Web-based business up
and going, they could send you many leads and that could turn
into paying clients.
What else might you want? Perhaps
free advertising or publicity to bring more business your way?
Sure! Write it down on the wish list.
Making Wishes Come True
Now, the next step is to find
the resources you need in order to make those wishes realities.
It's not as difficult as it sounds. Just expand on your wish
list a bit in the following way.
We mentioned needing associations
with service providers that compliment our example of Web design.
So write down companies that provide: Web hosting, merchant accounts,
shopping carts,
autoresponders, Internet checks, copywriting, graphic design
and scripting/programming.
We also said we needed some
advertising or publicity. So add to the list the following: ezine
ad swaps, banner ad swaps, local newspapers, local TV and radio
stations, Chambers of Commerce.
Finally, it's time to go to
work. The best way to start is to alert your friends and associates
of what you are trying to accomplish. It's simple to send a quick
email that states something to the effect of, "I'm in the
process of expanding my resources and find I'm in need of the
following [provide the list]. If you know of anyone who you highly
recommend in one of the above areas, please offer them my phone
number and email address. I am interested in arranging a joint
affiliation with them in order to increase both our businesses."
You can also send the same
message to any lists or bulletin boards you frequent. Most people
are more than happy to refer those they have had pleasant working
relationships with.
Final Decisions
Lastly, once you get the results
from your search back, contact the ones you feel most comfortable
with. Again, honestly explain what you are doing and that you
would like to create a joint partnership with them in order to
exchange leads, prospects and services.
Even if someone does not suit
your needs at the moment, enter them into your database for future
reference. I once had a graphic designer's email address and
samples for 6 months before having a need for them. However,
because I had already
established contact, once my need arose it was smooth sailing!
When you are ready to begin
your projects, just contact those on your list who can fill a
need. Perhaps you want to advertise your Web design services.
You can ask someone in your network (a Web host, a graphic artist,
etc.) to participate in joint advertising with you. This will
allow you to get excellent exposure for half the price because
those costs are shared with your
"partner".
You can also set up a referral
process. I have several
arrangements with others in where we exchange referrals. Some
do it for a fee, others just do it on a one-for-one basis. You
and your network member can decide what works best for you.
The results of this simple
process are normally tremendous. The majority of small business
owners are always looking for ways to expand their businesses.
Exchanging leads with one another,
creating joint affiliations and bartering are great ways to create
a broad network that truly does work!
Diane Hughes is an accomplished
internet entrepreneur and
editor of the popular ProBizTips Newsletter. Subscribe to
her newsletter for more tips, tricks, and secrets of the
trade -- plus get HUNDREDS of eBooks, software and tools
just for subscribing! http://viralmarketzone.com/diane
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