State of New Jersey Business Action Center:
New Jersey Business Action Center
NJEDA Opens the NJ Capital Access Fund
Business Grants Currently Available:
Small Business Lease Grant Program
Small Business Improvement Grant Program
Small Business eCommerce Support Program
Main Street Grant Lenders
How to Start and Operate a Business in New Jersey:
New Jersey Business Government Resources
Economic Recovery:
Economic Recovery Act Programs
Networking Tips:
4 Tips to Help You Network Successfully
5 Simple Networking Tips for Chamber of Commerce Members:
Networking is essential for building relationships, expanding your business, and staying informed about local opportunities. Here are some tips to help you network effectively.
- Attend Chamber Events
- Be a Regular: Make a conscious effort to attend as many chamber events as possible.
- Engage Actively: Participate in discussions, introduce yourself to new people, and follow up on conversations.
- Volunteer: Offering to help with chamber events can strengthen your connections and give you a leadership role.
- Leverage Chamber Resources
- Member Directory: Refer to the chamber’s member directory to identify potential business partners or clients.
- Follow Up Effectively
- Send Thank-You Notes: Express your gratitude for meeting new people and discussing potential collaborations.
- Schedule Follow-Up Meetings: If you had a productive conversation, schedule a follow-up meeting to discuss next steps.
- Stay Connected: Maintain contact through email, social media, or phone calls to keep relationships strong.
- Be a Value-Added Networker
- Offer Assistance: Be willing to help other members with their businesses or projects.
- Share Expertise: Share your knowledge and insights with others.
- Be a Positive Force: Maintain a positive attitude and contribute to a supportive networking environment.
- Expand Your Network Beyond the Chamber
- Attend Industry Events: Attend conferences, trade shows, and industry-specific events to meet people outside your local chamber.
- Join Professional Organizations: Membership in industry-related organizations can provide additional networking opportunities.
- Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field.
Remember, networking is a marathon, not a sprint.
While you might not close deals immediately, attending chamber events is about building relationships and establishing trust. It takes time to nurture these connections and convert them into business opportunities. Be patient, consistent, and focused on building genuine relationships.
