Networking Your Small Business

As a small business owner, one of the ongoing challenges you may face is getting your brand out there in the physical world. Sure, you’ve set up a pretty good website and you’re likely involved in two or three different social media platforms, but you spend a lot of time on your computer or on your phone to either do business or drum up new customers. How much time is spent face-to-face?

Joining a local group targeted to your industry whose members are similar or complimentary in what they offer, is an excellent way to expand your reach.  Not only do you have the opportunity to share and learn with other professionals, you never know if they have a client who needs just what you have to offer.

One of my favourite groups is the Halton Peel Communication Association (HPCA). They are a collection of independent communication professionals including writers, graphic designers, web developers, photographers, translators and marketing specialists.  Every month they offer a chance to gather and share information that will help each other grow their business (see details below for the September 2011 session).  
Check out what’s available in your area and drop by for a meeting or two until you find a group that ‘clicks’ with what you’re trying to achieve. At the very least, you will have gained some valuable business colleagues.

DIGITAL STORYTELLING WITH DONNA PAPACOSTA
Whether we are writers, designers, photographers, web developers or marketing pros, we are all in the business of telling stories to reach influential audiences. Compelling content for your online marketing and PR efforts starts with a strong strategy and a solid story, told effectively via text, audio or video format. Donna Papacosta wowed conference-goers at the June IABC World Conference in San Diego with her fast-paced session, which focused on the dos and don'ts of telling digital stories -- including through podcasts and videos. For those of us who could not attend the international conference, Donna will offer her impressive presentation again, especially for HPCA members and guests.
It all takes place on Thursday, September 15 at the e-Spot, 2nd floor, 353 Iroquois Shore Road, Oakville (north of the QEW, east of Trafalgar Road). Refreshments and networking take place from 6:30 to 7 p.m., and the meeting runs from 7 to 9 p.m.
Free for members, and only $20 for non-members. Please register on the Events page at www.hpcaonline.com.

photo credit: Ambro from www.freedigitalphotos.net