The Power of Networking: My Experience at the Marietta Business Association Event
As business owners, we often focus on product development, marketing strategies, and scaling our businesses—but one key aspect of success often gets overlooked: networking.
I recently had the opportunity to attend a business networking event hosted by the Marietta Business Association at The Third Door in Marietta, GA. I have to say, it was not just another event—it was productive, engaging, and an absolute game-changer. Let me share why.
Why Networking Matters
Did you know that 85% of jobs are filled through networking? It’s a statistic that doesn’t just apply to job seekers, but to entrepreneurs and small business owners as well. Networking can be a key source of growth for your business. It opens doors to new partnerships, customers, and opportunities. The Third Door, which was the venue for this event, is actually a great example of the power of networking. Their name symbolizes the idea that if you can't get through the front door (the conventional path), there’s always a third door—a creative and unexpected solution, just like the networking opportunities you may find.
The Event: A Brief Overview
As soon as I walked in, I was surrounded by fellow entrepreneurs, local business owners, and a handful of people just like me—ready to network and learn. I was able to introduce myself and speak briefly about my local business, Attentive Safety CPR and Safety Training. Everyone was welcoming, and we all shared our experiences in a relaxed yet professional environment.
Key Takeaways from the Event
Building Relationships Takes Time Networking isn’t about making a sale immediately; it’s about building long-term relationships. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. You can’t expect to connect with a potential client or partner just because you spoke to them for 5 minutes. Building trust and rapport is the foundation.
Local Networking Boosts Community Involvement The event was a perfect reminder of how being involved locally can significantly grow your business. Over 60% of businesses that engage in community-focused networking experience increased visibility and higher local sales. This is something that’s especially important for small business owners—those personal connections and word-of-mouth marketing can create loyal customers who keep coming back.
Don’t Be Shy—Speak Up! It’s easy to sit back and let everyone else talk, but one of the highlights of the event was when I was invited to speak about my business. I introduced Attentive Safety, mentioned the value of CPR and safety training, and how it helps companies stay compliant while saving lives. You don’t know who’s in the room and what they need unless you open your mouth. Plus, sharing what you do helps others see how you can help them.
Networking Builds Confidence Public speaking is one of the top fears of business owners, but through networking events, you get to practice that skill in a safe space. The more you put yourself out there, the more confident you become. Whether you're speaking with one person or a group, it's a great way to build your communication skills.
Humor Moment: A Little Icebreaker
Here’s the thing—networking isn’t just about handing out business cards. It’s about connecting with people and finding common ground. I couldn’t help but laugh when someone asked me what I do, and I said, “I teach people how to save lives.” One person responded with, “Oh, you teach CPR? So, if I have a heart attack, I should just call you?” I replied, “Well, I’ll be happy to help, but it might be easier if you learn the technique so you can help yourself!” 😊 It’s all about making genuine connections while having a little fun along the way.
Final Thoughts: Should You Attend Networking Events?
In short: YES! I encourage every business owner to attend networking events. They provide tangible opportunities for growth, visibility, and learning from others. Whether you're an introvert or extrovert, there’s something incredibly valuable about connecting with like-minded individuals who can help you thrive.
So, get out there and start making those connections—you never know when that third door will open for you.
Remember: Business grows through relationships, not just transactions.
See you at the next event! 😊
Let me know your thoughts, and feel free to share your networking experiences in the comments below!
