We’ve done a lot of teaching here about networking INSIDE the wedding industry.  Networking OUTSIDE of our industry is equally, if not more, important. Here’s why:

There is very little competition when you network in other industries…

By growing strong relationships OUTSIDE of the wedding industry you become the go-to gal or guy for them.  Any time they hear of someone getting married, they will refer you because they don’t often have anyone else to refer.  OR – better yet – they have a special bond with you and like what you do.  They don’t have to choose from 10 other planners, florists, or photographers they like.  They are all about you and only you.

Everyone loves referring wedding pros…

We are fortunate to be in the wedding industry.  Weddings are happy events.  When someone finds out a friend or family member is getting married, it is a joyful celebration.  People come together to help in the planning by making suggestions.  (This is sometimes for better or worse for the engaged couple.  But, nonetheless, it’s what happens.)  People love having someone to refer when the big announcement comes through.

Exposure to a whole new pool of potential clients…

Things can get a little incestuous in the wedding industry at times.  In some smaller communities, you’ll often know all the same brides as do your colleagues.  By networking outside of the industry, you are being exposed to potential clients that you might not otherwise meet.  This is akin to dating outside of your social circle.  You’re likely to meet a new “love interest” if you aren’t hanging out with the same group of people all the time.

There is much to learn from other business owners…

This last one has less to do with getting referrals and more to do with growing as a business owner.  I love talking with business owners in other industries.  I learn so much about how they do business that is different than what we do in the wedding industry.  It forces me to think outside the box to see if some of their ideas will work for my business.  It stretches me as a business owner.

How has networking outside of the wedding industry helped your business?

Come back tomorrow…  I’ll be sharing how to go about networking outside of the wedding industry.