Despite the rise of digital marketing, traditional marketing methods are still valuable, and one of the longest-running traditional methods is network marketing. In this blog, we look at what network marketing is, why it can help benefit your business, and how.
What is Network Marketing?
Network marketing is a type of business model in marketing that is dependant on person-to-person or direct sales of a product or service. Network marketing is a way of “networking” with potential customers, so it requires excellent communication, and it can be an extremely effective offline, traditional marketing strategy.
Why is Networking Important for Your Business?
There are many reasons why networking is important for businesses. For one, it can help you build relationships with potential customers. When you have a good relationship with someone, they’re more likely to do business with you, trust you, and end up loyal, long-standing customers.
Networking will also help you grow your brand. When you meet new people and talk about your business, you’re helping to spread the word about your company and what it does. This can ultimately lead to more customers and sales for your business.
If you’re not already networking, now is the time to start. It’s a powerful marketing tool that can help you grow your business in many ways.
How Do You Network with Others?
There are a few different ways you can network with others. One way is to attend events where you’ll meet new people, from trade shows to business networking events.
Another way to network is to reach out to people you know, whether it’s your friends, family, or even business contacts you’ve met in the past. If you have a good relationship with someone, they may be willing to introduce you to other people they know who could be potential customers or partners for your business.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Network Marketing
There are both advantages and disadvantages to network marketing. Some of the benefits include:
- It’s a way to reach new customers you wouldn’t otherwise have contact with.
- It can help you build relationships with potential customers.
- It can generate leads for your business.
- It can help build your brand.
Some of the disadvantages include:
- It can be time-consuming.
- You may not always get a positive response from people you approach.
- Some people may view it as spamming.
If you decide to try network marketing, keep these disadvantages in mind. But don’t let them dissuade you – the advantages can be well worth it for your business.
Bigwave’s Top Tips for Networking
Do your research
Before you attend any networking event, make sure you do your research. Find out who is attending and understand the roles in the industry to help you know who to talk to and what to say when you meet them.
Dress for success
First impressions are everything. Dress in a way that demonstrates your professionalism, but also doesn’t make you feel uncomfortable.
Make a plan
When you go to a networking event, have a plan; know who you want to talk to and what you want to say. This will help you make the most of your time and meet the people you need to meet.
Bring business cards and other print marketing materials
Business cards are a must-have when you’re networking. They make it easy for people to get in touch with you after you’ve met them. Make sure your business cards are high-quality and include all your contact information. You can also hand out leaflets, brochures, and other print marketing materials. Remember to include a QR code or a CTA to direct people to your online marketing.
Be a good listener
When you’re networking, it’s important to be a good listener. People will appreciate it if you take the time to listen to them, and listening will give you a better understanding of their needs and how you can help them.
Follow up
After you’ve met someone, make sure you follow up with them. Send an email or call to thank them for their time. This will help you stay top of mind and make it more likely that they’ll do business with you in the future.
Creating a Network Marketing Strategy
If you want to be successful at network marketing, you need to have a strategy. You can’t just go out and start talking to people randomly – you need to have a plan.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when creating your network marketing strategy:
- Who is your target market? You need to know who you’re trying to reach with your marketing. What are their needs and what do they want?
- What are your goals? What do you hope to achieve with your network marketing efforts? Do you want to generate leads, make sales, or build relationships?
- What is your budget? You need to have a budget for your network marketing efforts. This will help you determine how much you can spend on things like business cards, advertising, and events.
- What is your timeline? When do you want to achieve your goals? Set a realistic timeline for yourself so you can measure your progress.
- What are your methods? How are you going to convince your target market? How will you encourage them to visit your online channels?
- What are your materials, and will they help you reach your target market? This could include things like business cards, flyers, or website content.
- What is your call to action? What do you want people to do after they’ve seen your materials? Do you want them to call you, visit your website, or come to your office?
By following these tips, you can create a network marketing strategy that will help you achieve your goals. Just remember to be clear about your objectives, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your network.
To find out more about traditional marketing techniques, why not get in touch with our experts? Bigwave Marketing is a full-service traditional and digital marketing agency that helps power businesses and boosts their creative flair.