Do you use Business Networks?
| Are you a member of any business networks, if so, why do you consider membership valuable? |
I have seen some local companies ads including their membership in a local business network. See http://www.bni.com/
In essence, the members of the network can refer you to other businesses within the network. So if you get you car serviced and mention that you are looking for some new furniture (as you do) then the mechanic may have a furniture store in their business network and give your their details.
So essentially the network is a word of mouth referral network.
I have been considering joining one of these for my business but I do not know if its actually going to be of any use as it seems that there is an upkeep of money and time to stay within the network.
Are you in a network and if so, how well does it work for you?
Dependent on type of business
My local vegetable delivery person is in a business network and always sings their praises.
My guess, since I have never tried, would be that it depends on your business type. My vegetable delivery person would have a huge benfit from the network since people don't traditionally get their groceries delivered nor would they think that it is cheaper and better quality than supermarket or "fruit shop" groceries.
Sure if somebody sees an ad for this business they may follow up but there are not going to be many people activly seeking this type of company.
So I would say that it is highly business dependent.
How much upkeep?
How much money and time is required to stay in the network.
If it were $10 per year then your decision may be different than for if it were $1000 per year.
Printing Business
My guess, since I have never tried, would be that it depends on your business type.
Probably so,
Let just say I am in the printing business and do prints on paper, plastic, material, etc.
I thought it may be great to do some B2B printing since that is mostly what I do but the concept of referring customers rather than being a group to advertise too has me at odds. I don't want to join only top be looked down on for using the network as an advertising ring.
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