The Importance of Networking

Gaithersburg-Germantown Members networking & building relationships at a recent Chamber event.

In business, it is all about connections, connections, connections and how you make those connections is something just about every business person can always improve upon.

Business is all about making the right connections and getting the word out about your company, services, and products. Advertising and marketing campaigns are only one part of the success equation, to really make a splash in the business world you need to build a solid network.

Exchanging information with other business professionals can help you learn mistakes to avoid and glean ideas from the success tips of other entrepreneurs.

Most business owners say their schedule is demanding enough without adding one more activity to their busy calendar. So why do so many try to make a commitment to add the time into their schedule to join and actively participate in their local chamber of commerce? Because membership in the local chamber offers numerous benefits and keeps business owners on top of important, ever-changing issues and trends within their community and local marketplace.

No matter how hard you work, you cannot live up to your full potential as an entrepreneur operating in total isolation. Attending networking events can help you both professionally and personally.

Remember, you’re marketing your business and yourself, and best of all you are creating connections. Our events are all about mutual benefits. How can you offer a service or help another? There will be times when you may need help or advice, and you will want to have built a strong network.

CONNECT & NETWORK
With over 400 businesses and organizations as members the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber offers unparalleled access to decision makers in the Upcounty. We give you access to more than 31,000 employees in the Montgomery County Upcounty and to a variety of businesses. Plus, we have 40+ events annually at different locations and times to accommodate your busy schedule.

Membership with the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce (GGCC) not only brings credibility and visibility to your business, it provides members with great opportunities to get to know new people and expand their prospect base. For example, chamber events – innovative and fun ways to help our members meet potential customers, clients and vendors generate new business leads.

We always say in order to get the most out of your Chamber membership, one needs to GET INVOLVED!

We offer several events affording you the opportunity to connect you to the information you want and to the people that will enhance the value of your business. For more information on the GGCC visit us at www.ggchamber.org or call us at 301.840.1400. We hope to see you soon.

About Laura Rowles

Laura authors the blog Your Success is Our Business on MyMCMedia. Laura is the Director of Events & Marketing for the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce - a member-based organization of businesses that have joined together for the purpose of promoting the civic, commercial and industrial progress in our communities. The area's economic well-being is a result of the caliber of work that is done by the Chamber. The Chamber has a major impact on business, income and future growth of the area. My position at the Chamber - Director of Events & Marketing - affords me the opportunity to plan quality events for our Members and market the Chamber is a variety of avenues. At the GGCC, we typically have around 30 events each year including: breakfasts, lunches, after-five's, ribbon cuttings and special events. The consensus is we have high quality events with good energy. In 2012, we had over 2,040 people visit our events. Most our events are free to Members so securing sponsorships for all events. Additionally, I am responsible for planning networking, overseeing the budget and marketing of all events in order to make them successful. Lastly, I coordinate all marketing and communication efforts of the GGCC including weekly email blasts, its quarterly newsletter, all social media platforms, media relations and community outreach.

View all posts by Laura Rowles