Most of us can agree that one of the biggest ways to attract business success is making friends with the right people. Whether you're a master networker or a wallflower at parties, reaching out to the following community partners will help drive your business forward.
The Neighborhood PTA Mom
Where can you find all of your neighborhood's adults gathered in one place? PTA Night! What better way to connect and foster new relationships than aligning your business with the families and areas you're hoping to serve? Aside from sponsoring a PTA night, you may want to look out for opportunities to support school sports teams, theater and music events, and more. Your sponsorship lets potential clients know that you're invested in the neighborhood.
The Local Librarian
Libraries are wonderful resources. Many libraries have space and time for scheduled community events, like a free home buying seminar. Get in touch with your closest library to see if there are rooms available for rent (many will allow you to host an event at a minimal cost, but require that the event be free to the public.) Marketed well, you could become the go-to agent for first time homeowners, property investors, home staging - whatever your strengths may be. When those attendees are ready to buy or sell, you'll be first on their list.
The Small Business Owner
The possibilities with small business owners are endless. From restaurants to boutiques, entrepreneurs are typically ready and willing to connect to spread the word about their products or services. Connect with a home cleaning service to suggest a steady flow of business (from the buyers and sellers you'll refer) in return for discounts for your clients. Reach out to your favorite pizza place about advertising on their tables, and order a pizza for your new homeowners on their first night in the new house. Whether you enter into a financial partnership, by way of advertising with your small business owner friends, or strike up a mutually beneficial arrangement, by making friends with a local entrepreneur, you're placing yourself one step closer to those personal referrals. On top of that, you're showing off your local expertise.