How to network and market your business

Four years ago I joined a networking group because I was feeling stale after 15 years of running a third generation pest control company. I went to the meetings, nothing thrilling at first. Having to pull myself out of bed for a 6:30 meeting was questionable in itself.

One day, a light went off. I started using the tools and referrals from this group. My confidence started to grow, and as a result, my business was being revitalized also. This group encouraged me to apply for the Athena Powerlink appointment. If you meet the qualifications and are picked, you receive one year of professional mentoring from a panel of 11 local experts, free of charge. Well, I did apply and was accepted! 2008 has changed my life.

I spent countless hours with dynamic individuals who each lent a different expertise. I have redesinged my pest control business. The true irony comes from then purchasing the membership network group that gave me the confidence to apply for Athena.

In April 2009, I became the new “supercharged” leader of the Erie Small Business Alliance. I am blessed to be able to take 20 years of experience as a business owner, combine it with great lessons from my Athena mentors, and “pay it forward” to my network group. Word of mouth is the greatest compliment a company can have. I am hoping to impress the importance of customer service, which then results in unlimited referrals.

Some programs that I offer through ESBA (www.eriesba.com) as part of the membership is core group. Core groups are usually attended by 5-8 members over coffee. We take a few minutes with each member to learn more about their business, then brainstorm on creative ideas to promote their business-as well as produce referrals.

ESBA has teamed up with our local chamber of commerce. We are both membership organizations, but felt a join venture would benefit all our members. On August 12th, the two groups will combine for a Speed Networking event. This is high energy and guaranteed to produce countless referrals.

With the on-going threat of a slower economy, advertising budgets are simply not as available as in the past. I hope that with my energy and ideas, I can give small business the boost that they need through creative networking!

Donna Reese
President
Erie Small Business Alliance
General Exterminating