Best ways to improve your brand image with networking

Having a successful and strong brand image isn’t just about designing an appealing logo or branding. In order to make prospects intrigued by your business, you need to create a brand image that not only reaches them but also stands out to them. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through networking. Implementing networking strategies that help you to build a highly successful brand image will be pivotal for your business’s success.

Trust

If people don’t think highly about your business, they won’t trust it. So what is the best way to convince prospects and partners into trusting your company? Building a network of close and interpersonal connections enables you to gain more credibility and your business will also receive greater interest. Trust is formed by meaningful relationships that endure and evolve over time, so keep in touch and help others whenever you can. Our group stands by ‘givers gain’ where the more you give to others, the greater the results you will receive in return.

Sustainability

When you network, spend more time getting to know other participants. Find out about their favorite hobbies, sports, programs, and dream careers – all this personal information could lead to exciting opportunities. The most fruitful business relationships that last longer can only be created with time and nurturing. If you expect to see results straight away, you need to change your approach. This way you will create a sustainable network that will strengthen your brand image.

Lead with Value

Leading with value is what ultimately connects people with your brand. Networking should never be just about selling. You need to make it clear what talents, strengths, skills, and connections you can bring to the table first. How you communicate your values and mission to prospects, partners, investors, and clients is critical for their onboarding support and establishing a strong brand image in their eyes. People remember information that feels meaningful to them and are more prepared to help your cause when they are personally connected to it. Plan what you talk about with other networking attendees to present your brand in the right way. Connecting with others in circles of influence will have much greater benefits for your business in the long term than finding one prospect in the short term.

Don’t wait, be the first to offer

When you meet new contacts while networking, don’t ask them for their help straight away. It is important for you to consider how you can be of use to them first. This way you will create a positive impression that will strengthen your brand image and help you create a powerful network. It is important to keep in mind that the most profitable results of networking come with time. The more you spend on building relationships the better results you will receive.

Personal brand image on LinkedIn

LinkedIn presents great opportunities for building your brand image. Following up with people you met while networking with a connection request is an accessible and effective way to stay in touch. Maintaining an active presence on LinkedIn by posting regularly keeps your audience up-to-date with your latest achievements and business progress. It also provides you with an opportunity to interact with your contacts and establish more personal and long-lasting connections.

The importance of a follow-up

If you promised you would get in touch, make sure you do it to reaffirm your interest in how you can also help them. If you said you would introduce one of the attendees to someone from your content, it is important you take the time to do this. Small actions like these will take you less than a minute of your time but will show how valuable their connection is to you. People will remember your acts of kindness and are more inclined to return the favor in the future when they recognize your selflessness. One introduction could change someone’s life for the better – whether it’s you giving or receiving the opportunity.

Build your brand image with networking

Networking requires regularity and consistency. Whether you attend an event just once a week, you can maintain regular contact through other ways, such as LinkedIn. Networking is a long-term investment in your brand image. It is about maintaining a presence, listening to and supporting your peers, and establishing trust and respect in return. All these traits will enable you to grow a powerful network that can significantly help your business to expand.

The power of networking with BNI

The true value of networking lies in relationships and helping each other. Through regularly attending and meeting with other business owners, you will successfully create an impressive network of professionals that be critical to establishing a strong brand image. The beauty of networking is that you never know who you will meet or who those people can introduce you to, and how that one connection can tremendously change your business.

Our networking group is all about supporting each other and growing together. If you are looking for a diverse group of like-minded professionals, join us and experience business growth through unique opportunities that will help you build your brand image. You can’t afford to miss it.