Why Business Networking is Easier When You Join an Advisory Board

Businesses revolve around people. They’re what keep your company running smoothly, allowing your business to grow at a steady pace. Ultimately, expanding your business means expanding your network of people, from employees to customers. The obvious way to build your network is by networking, but for some reason, business networking has developed a negative connotation. Many business owners sweat at the thought of selling themselves to a roomful of strangers who are doing the exact same thing.

The good news: business networking doesn’t have to be that hard – especially for TAB members. When you join an advisory board, networking occurs naturally. You’ll meet plenty of business owners with goals and challenges similar to yours who can help you grow your business.

If the thought of another forced event with endless handshakes has you sworn off networking forever, perhaps an advisory board is the solution to expanding your “people” base. Here’s why business networking is easier when you join an advisory board:

• You become a member of a built-in network. When you join an advisory board, you are immediately connected to your local board, and over time, will develop relationships with the advisory program’s global community. Most peer to peer advisory businesses offer a variety of channels for connecting with other board members, such as conferences, webinars, and social media groups. TAB’s Twitter, Facebook,  and LinkedIn pages allow board members to share business insights and support one another online.

• You gain exposure to owners from different industries. Advisory boards are generally composed of business owners from non-competing industries, who you probably wouldn’t meet otherwise. This setup provides a wider knowledge base to learn from than an industry-based networking event.

  The Alternative Board believes that 75% of businesses face the same challenges, regardless of industry, size, or value, and you can discover a lot about your business by learning about the successes and shortcomings of vastly different businesses. A marketing company has a lot to learn from a restaurant business which has a lot to learn from a large scale product manufacturer which has a lot to learn from a solo E-Commerce entrepreneur.

• You’re given the tools to network successfully.

  Is your fear of networking holding you back as a business owner? No problem! Advisory boards exist to help you overcome your personal obstacles. While some business owners need assistance with marketing or finances, your struggle may be business development.

  Fortunately, someone on your local board is likely to be able to help you conquer your weakness. The members of your board can recommend outlets for networking that have been successful for them in the past and help you build confidence in presenting yourself at such events. With an advisory board, you’re provided a guaranteed support group to back you up and encourage you to follow through with your business networking goals.

Without the pretense of having to network, you’re more naturally able to form relationships with business owners who want to learn just as much from you as you do from them. By joining your local TAB board, you can expand your network today and learn how to make the most of your time -- without the frustration that usually comes along with networking.