Business Networking During COVID-19
It is certainly unchartered territory right now for businesses with the presence of COVID-19. Whilst the impacts to everyone’s businesses during this time of uncertainty will be different, clearly, we all need to keep progressing with whatever forward momentum we can. If you or your target market no longer want or are able to conduct face to face business, what are your strategies? Here are just a few of your options:
Enhance Your Social Media Presence
One of the biggest obstacles (or perhaps excuse) for businesspeople as to why don’t have a stronger social media presence is that they don’t have time. Take the time now! What content are you creating that positions you or your business as an ideal solution, thought leader, whatever? It doesn’t need to be massive; just 400 words will get you started. Your audience wants to know what pain points you solve and how you have truly helped your customers – not marketing spin. How are you integrating the content you are posting across all your media channels (e.g. your website, Facebook, Instagram, etc.)?
Connect with LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a target rich environment. Are you connected with your customers, suppliers, etc.? Are you posting relevant content you have created from the above onto LinkedIn? One of the key secrets to growing your presence on LinkedIn is to Like, Comment and Share. LinkedIn loves users who engage with their platform. If you haven’t yet, optimise your profile for SEO.
Ask for Referrals
Are you regularly asking your delighted customers about who else they might know? Remember to keep this request specific so that they know exactly where amongst their network they should be looking for referrals for you. People are reluctant to refer someone that isn’t an ideal match.
The Phone Dials Out
Today with the use of texts and email, it appears that some of us may have forgotten that people buy from people that they know, like and trust. When is last time that you called your customers (lapsed or current), your suppliers and business associates just to see how they are doing? You might be surprised by where the conversation takes you as you could uncover a business deal even during these trying times!
