Written By Ashlee McNicole
(http://ashleemcnicolbooks.com/)


  • With an environment as competitive as business, you’ll be happy to know that small business owners complement one another more often than they replace one another. There are so many accomplished entrepreneurs out there to learn from. A huge part of building your network is by communicating with these people, as well as bloggers and activists that support your cause.Connect with People So, where can you reach out to these likeminded people, you may ask? Simple.

  • Here are some ideas: Join an online forum. Join Facebook small business promotion and business owner forums. Keep an email list and have people sign up at events. Send them information with new product debuts in a newsletter. Search for people on social media who support your cause. Participate in blog tours. Find fellow business owners on Google +. Comment on blog posts. Add professionals on LinkedIn. Search Twitter hashtags. Email product reviewers. “Like” other pages on social media. Direct message to “like” yours in exchange. Review products. Post on your blog. Host a booth at local fairs and events. Ask your friends and family to promote your products when they comes out. After meeting likeminded individuals, consider having them pop over to your blog for a guest post, make an appearance on your social media page, undergo an interview, or do a joint podcast regarding a certain topic in small business development.< strong>

  • Conversation Starters If you have issues coming up with things to talk about and are worried that it will blow the deal, consider these topics: The best new businesses of 2015 Marketing trends between 2014-2015 Ways to self-promote your work Best places to connect with likeminded people Podcasts How to increase subscribers on your blog How to build your fan base The most important thing to remember when meeting new people is to smile. Even if you are communicating with them online, smile with your words. Show your friendly, enthusiastic attitude, and own it. Tips for Success Don’t be afraid of criticism. Everyone is different. Always pass out business cards. List popular guest post ideas. Find interesting articles and ask the business owners to come on your site for an appearance. Reblog great posts via Twitter and Google +.