The Power of Networking in the Equine Industry
Today, I want to share with you the undeniable power of networking in the equine industry and how it's been a cornerstone of my career and the growth of BRIDL.
Leveraging LinkedIn for Growth Starting out in the equestrian world, I quickly realized that success in this niche market isn't just about your knowledge of horses or your business acumen; it's profoundly about who you know and how you connect with them. The equine industry, vast and varied as it is, thrives on relationships. From finding the right investors to connecting with potential customers, every step of my journey has underscored the value of building a strong network.
The Importance of Industry Events The realization hit early on that no entrepreneur is an island. The collaborative nature of the equine industry means that your next big break could very well come from a connection made at a networking event, a casual conversation in the barn aisle, or a well-timed introduction at a horse show. Equestrian Businesswomen, among other organizations, have been instrumental in facilitating these connections.
Building BRIDL Through Networking Building BRIDL wasn't just about creating another marketplace; it was about weaving a network of trust, transparency, and mutual support within the equine community. This ethos has been the guiding principle in how we approach our work every day. By prioritizing relationships over transactions, we've managed to create a platform that serves not just as a marketplace but as a community.
Reflections and Realizations In reflection, the growth of BRIDL and my personal development as an entrepreneur have been significantly shaped by the relationships nurtured along the way. Whether it was through sharing a coffee with a fellow equestrian entrepreneur, engaging in discussions on LinkedIn, or collaborating with industry leaders, each connection contributed a piece to the puzzle.
Marie’s Best Tips for Effective Networking
Be Proactive and Reach Out: Don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Use platforms like LinkedIn to actively seek out and connect with individuals in the industry. A simple message can open doors to new possibilities.
Attend Events with Purpose: When attending networking events, go with clear objectives. Whether it’s meeting specific individuals or learning about new trends, having a purpose will guide your interactions and make your networking efforts more productive.
Value Authenticity Over Transactions: Genuine connections are built on authenticity. Approach every conversation with sincerity and a genuine interest in the other person. This builds trust and long-lasting relationships.
Follow Up and Keep in Touch: Networking doesn’t end with the first interaction. Follow up with new connections, share relevant information, and keep the conversation going. This consistency helps to solidify relationships and keeps you top of mind.
Offer Value Before Asking for Help: Aim to provide value in every interaction. Whether it's sharing knowledge, offering assistance, or connecting someone with a helpful contact, giving first establishes you as a valuable and supportive member of the community.
To all my fellow equestrian entrepreneurs and professionals, let's continue to build these bridges, share our journeys, and support each other in navigating the exciting world of equine business. After all, in this industry, your network truly is your net worth.
I also dived deeper about this topic on the blog of Equivont if you want to read more..
