This month, we reached out to some of our members to ask them about the value business networking adds to their business. We know there are many options and questions when it comes to joining a networking group as a business owner and we wanted you to hear what some our members had to say. In this Q&A-style article, you’ll learn why Commerce Connections works for growing a business.
What made you choose Commerce Connections for business networking?
Friendly and beneficial
“A friend invited me to Commerce Connections after telling me how beneficial it was for her and her company. On my very first visit, the people were welcoming and genuine, not trying to ‘hype it up.’ After a couple of visits, I joined Commerce Connections, and the relationships that I have built both professional and personal have benefited me greatly.” Steve Manning, Master Garage Door Co.
Location, location, location
“I chose Commerce Connections because of the meeting location. It was in an area that I wanted to get more business.” – David Gonzalez, AcuSystem Home Inspections
Flexibility and connections
“I chose Commerce Connections due to the flexibility it provided me versus other groups. I also felt a strong connection to the members during my three free visits before becoming a member. The group truly cared about each other.” – Michael Brand, Vortex Security
Meeting peers and midweek break
“The location and time for this meeting are great. It’s a wonderful way to meet to other business owners and breaks up my week nicely!” – Melissa Canfield, HiTech Automotive
Have you visited/joined other networking groups? What are the differences/similarities that appeal to you?
Accountability and engagement
“I have visited other networking groups. However, I really like the accountability Commerce Connections offers and how numbers and action items are tracked. I like the friendly contests that keep me engaged and working hard to promote others, and I especially like the community involvement component of helping others with the quarterly charities!” – Melissa Canfield, HiTech Automotive
Flexible with structure and giving back
“The flexible attendance, structured but flexible meetings, and comradery. Also, the giving back to the charitable organizations within the community.” Michael Brand, Vortex Security
Community and caring for each other
“Since I joined Commerce Connections, I’ve tried other networking groups that were not quite the same. This group genuinely cares about one another, the community, and helping one another.” – Steve Manning, Master Garage Door Co.
Unique and worthwhile
“I belong to multiple networking groups, Chambers of Commerce, and other business groups. They are all great for support, mentorship, and businesses helping other businesses. There is a trust earned that pays huge dividends. Each group is different in the structure, energy, and requirements for members.” – David Gonzalez, AcuSystem Home Inspections
Why would you tell someone to visit or join Commerce Connections?
Energy, camaraderie, and giving back
“I love Commerce Connections for its energy and camaraderie. The amount of time spent giving back to the community and local charities is also a strong appeal. For these reasons, I always seek visitors who are looking to grow their businesses.” – David Gonzalez, AcuSystem Home Inspections
Growth opportunities
“I invite others to visit Commerce Connections if they want to grow their business and work with great members of the local community.” – Michael Brand, Vortex Security
Professionals with servant heart
“If a business is interested in meeting a professional group of people with servant's hearts, Commerce Connection is for them!” – Melissa Canfield, HiTech Automotive
Confident referrals based on similar values
“The business professionals that are part of the group have similar core values about how we treat customers/clients. If one of my customers asks for a referral for a business, I can recommend my fellow members without hesitation.” – Steve Manning, Master Garage Door Co.
Do you see growth in your business through business networking, and do you do other types of marketing to generate leads/sales?
Networking and solid referrals
“Business networking and customer referrals have been my two best growth avenues.” Michael Brand, Vortex Security
Referrals and business education
“I get a lot of referrals from networking groups. I also get lots of educational moments that help grow my business. It is a piece of the puzzle to my success. Other pieces being things like sponsorships, advertising, email campaigns, newsletters, blogs, social media, etc.” – David Gonzalez, AcuSystem Home Inspections
Marketing tool
“Business networking is a crucial part of my marketing strategy. In the automotive repair industry, there is inherent mistrust, and it is important for me and my business to meet with potential customers face-to-face to assure them they are with a trustworthy and honest repair shop!” – Melissa Canfield, HiTech Automotive
Measurable growth
“My business would not be where it is today without Commerce Connections. Please take the time to visit. You will not regret it!” Steve Manning, Master Garage Door Co.
Share a tip or business idea you learned at CC that helped you grow your business.
Grow outside your comfort zone
“I learned this one long ago, but it has been proven again here at Commerce Connections. You never know who knows whom. Sometimes you may get the best referral from a partner you might not have expected. Don’t be afraid to grow outside your business sphere and get to know all the other members. You never know who can help you grow your business.” Michael Brand, Vortex Security
Goal refinement and attainment
“Commerce Connections has helped me to refine my goals for growth and document steps toward achieving those goals.” – David Gonzalez, AcuSystem Home Inspections
Monthly book club
“I have learned a lot from the monthly book club, and I always feel like I am learning something new. Readers are leaders." – Melissa Canfield, HiTech Automotive
Your business growth and success are probably two things you think about daily. If so, you will find value in joining our networking group to meet other business owners you can partner with, send warm referrals to from your customers and friends, and give back to your local community. Commerce Connections can provide the support and education you need to succeed in your business.
If you are interested in developing a network of partners who can help you grow your business, join us at Commerce Connections FREE this week. Here’s our schedule of meeting times and locations: https://www.commerceconnections.network/index.html#goto-anchor-1598404713627 We’d love to hear about your business and start building a relationship with you today.