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Get Ready for “Networking Season”

  • Posted by Mary Jo | 2 min read

With warm weather around the corner, you’ll find more business fairs, association lunches, farmer’s markets, and other events popping up all over the country. These events, regardless of their size, offer great opportunities to introduce your agency to potential new customers. Here are some quick tips to help you prepare for “networking season”:

Take advantage of sponsorships

Local events often offer chances to sponsor a booth or host a small activity. This not only boosts your visibility within the community but also provides added value to attendees, enhancing your agency’s reputation and reach.

Engage authentically

Whether you’re attending events or simply waiting in line for coffee, you’ll encounter numerous opportunities to introduce yourself to potential clients, even if just for a brief moment. Start by introducing yourself and showing genuine interest in the event and the community. Listen actively, ask open-ended questions, and share your expertise when appropriate. Remember, people are more likely to do business with someone they feel connected to, so prioritize building relationships over making immediate sales pitches.

Organize your online presence

Even if you only have a few moments with a prospect, you can easily direct them to your website or social media to continue the conversation. Ensure your online platforms are up-to-date by verifying all key information, contact details, and calls to action. Whether you’re just starting or looking to enhance your online presence, consider utilizing resources like Progressive Marketing, which offers discounted vendor programs to optimize your site, along with free videos and social content to market your offerings.

Focus and specialize!

Consider becoming the go-to agency for a specific business type, such as food trucks or florists. Develop expertise in their field, join their local associations if available, advertise strategically, and actively seek referrals. As you specialize, use targeted sell sheets to effectively reach your niche market.

Mary Jo is in marketing and communications at Progressive where she's been focused on the agent experience for over 20 years. In her free time, she enjoys garage saling, antique hunting and spending time with family and friends.