As we wrap up a week of amazing networking and relationship building in Orlando at the National 8(a) Small Business Conference, we can’t help but see the undeniable impact this type of socializing and camaraderie offers to business leaders. Often we hear that the best way business owners learn and grow is through the stories of experience from fellow leaders. Clearly, these conversations among peers are not only good business practices, but they have the potential to create conversations and connections that open doors to opportunity!
Attending conferences that provide you greater access to other people in your industry can grow your center of influence, increase your brand recognition, and give you the opportunity to build lasting connections that can provide access to resources for growth. We frequent the conference circuit for our target market to assist the small businesses who attend by means of displaying our capabilities and offering our network to the participants we meet.
Educational opportunities, aka breakout sessions, that provide you with information pertinent to winning more contracts and understanding regulations that apply to you is a great way to, as our friend and partner, Go-To-Guy Timberlake always says, “connect the dots” to better navigation of the industry. It is always a good idea to listen to the industry experts who share their insights at these events because they are bringing their “A” game for you, and you are bound to learn something you didn’t know before!
When looking ahead to engaging your peers in the contracting industry, keep some things in mind to maximize your time:
- Is there potential to meet other business owners and learn from their experiences?
Joining mentoring roundtables and matchmaking events is a great way to squeeze the most out of the time with other leaders. - Is there an affordable way for you to gain brand recognition?
If you are unable to sponsor the event or be an exhibitor, your best bet is in working the room through networking and connecting with the other attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors. - The more you attend, the more your network and sphere of influence will grow.
It’s not enough to just attend, follow up is key!
The National 8(a) Association Small Business Conference provided an excellent avenue for the attending businesses to learn, share and grow! Team Parabilis was a proud sponsor and presenter of information and we look forward to next year’s event in New Orleans!