How to network like a pro!
Networking is your BIGGEST tool, and building relationships is key if you want your lash business to grow.
With multiple lockdowns and no lash events over the last year you may feel a bit hesitant about networking in person again.
But remember: Networking is a huge tool, and you can network both on and offline. Online networking will not only will it grow your reach, but it will build your business and your community. Networking offline will help create opportunities for collaborations, idea sharing, and getting feedback.
Not sure how to network? Here are our tips on how to network like a pro....
Attend Lash Events
First and foremost, lash events are a fantastic networking opportunity. Whether you attend alone or in a group, you have one thing in common with everyone else in the room - lashes! Lash events are attended not only by lash artists but also by some key people behind some of the industry’s biggest brands. By attending you’ll have the opportunity to meet other lash artists, marketing professionals, suppliers, and business owners. You can discuss your experiences, talk about your business and your journey to lashing. You may meet a lash artist that works close by to you, or a new supplier and make lots of new friends.
Utilise online platforms
Networking through Instagram will grow your reach, grow your business, and build your community. Get to know your community, send them a message, and encourage conversation. Allocate a set amount of time a week for engagement/networking online. Contribute to lash forums and Facebook groups where you can. This not only gets your name out there but helps others and builds trust.
Business Cards
Get some business cards printed and take them with you to any lash events. Business cards should include all your key contact information so any new contacts can find you with ease. Business cards show you’re a professional and serious about your business. Good business cards get shown to others and shared between contacts and colleagues so they’re a simple but effective offline marketing tool.
You can design and order business cards from a number of different websites, and order in bulk. Business cards are professional, make a good first impression and work as a direct marketing tool. It’s always worth having some business cards in your bag, you never know when you’ll have the opportunity to share your business with others. Business cards can also come in very handy when networking at lash events so it’s definitely worth ordering some when you’re just starting out.
Follow Up
You could be the master of every networking event you attend, but if you don’t follow up, you will fail at building connections. People are busy and if you don’t connect with them often, you’ll be forgotten. After meeting someone new at a lash event, send a brief message or DM reminding them who you are and what you talked about. Doing so establishes your connection with them and opens up a line of communication so you can send them messages in the future. This way you'll build long lasting relationships, and expand your network.
We hope you found this blog post helpful, as always if you have any questions about what we've discussed drop us a message on Instagram @LashBase_UK and we'll be happy to help.
