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Networking

Hosting your networking events can also be a great way to connect with businesses without the interruption of daily work . Specific business networking events can facilitate easy and effective communication with business owners , marketing departments and other professionals .

New data has revealed that 65 % of businesses find face-to-face networking essential for their marketing .

And with important social media-based partnerships appearing , such as through the online platform , Tiktok , it is no wonder that SMEs are looking into branching out and connecting with other businesses and their audience in new ways .

Importance of events for building business communities

Business communities are a necessity for many smaller businesses . By connecting with other businesses , whether in the same local community or the same business area , you can further your outreach to new and established audiences .

And for many , business partnerships ( and so a strong business community ) are necessary for creating new ideas and insights – giving you a better understanding of the market and

what your business can offer new and loyal customers . In fact , 44 % of businesses seek partnerships for the purpose of innovation .

What events can you host ? Markets

Attending seasonal markets is necessary for many small businesses wanting to branch out into the local community . Small weekend markets are a great place to expand your network , keeping you in the loop with new and emerging businesses .

Whether hiring commercial slush machines for a summer market or catering food for the local fair , ensuring your business is involved in summer events is crucial . At the same time , other seasonal markets might be just as effective for craft businesses selling jewellery , clothing , or pottery – for example .

Not only do you get to connect with customers first-hand , but you will also be surrounded by like-minded businesses . This can be a great networking opportunity to get your name and brand recognised within a local space .

These events let you connect better and find companies which align with your values . By building strategic partnerships , you can benefit your business while helping others ; if your business is strong in IT , whereas another company has great customer after-care , cross-training and outsourcing might benefit both .

In fact , partnerships actually provide better growth than paid searches for business . So instead of wasting your time and money , you can be putting that additional energy into making connections in the industry and gaining better organic traffic .

Workshops

Another way you can connect with local and industry businesses is by hosting workshops .

Whether these are industry specific and discuss upcoming market trends , feature guest speakers from varying companies , or introduce local businesses to different industries , these can place your company in a thought leadership position and make your business a go-to for local and industry knowledge .

These workshops aren ’ t only opportunities for networking , but they also allow businesses to benefit each other . By exploring your business strengths and offering other companies a knowledge share , you can help encourage growth within the local community . �