I can't believe we're already here in week six of the 6 Week Marketing Challenge. We've covered a lot of information and I hope you've found it useful. This week, the challenge is to "Get Outside Your Tribe." And I'll warn you, it's more than a one week challenge.

The things we've been working on over the past month and a half have hopefully laid a foundation for you to support your marketing efforts online. But, where the real magic happens is out in the real world. You need to get outside of your tribe, meet new people, and turn them into customers for your business.

So how do you do that?

First, you need to make time. And you all told me you don't have that. But you have to make time to do things that will help you connect with people who will become customers for your business. Maybe it's joining your church group, or a book club, or the Chamber of Commerce in your community.

Whatever it is, you need to do it. Not only will it help you personally, but you will meet people who will want to connect with you and support your business. 

I'm not asking you to be a used car salesman...

Networking can feel slimy. And disingenuous. That's why it's important that you have your mission statement and goals in mind before you go. Look for opportunities to connect with people who you want as customers for your business. I'll bet there's a good chance that the people you want to do business with are a lot like you. That means that you probably have similar interests. 

Networking done right is about making new connections and being helpful. Often times, people aren't trying to buy something, they're trying to solve a problem. It's your job to listen to people and figure out how what you have solve their problem.

Don't forget these things:

  1. Carry business cards on you all the time! You never know when you're going to meet someone who wants to connect with your business.
  2. Be sure your business cards have your website on them. And make sure your website links to your social media accounts.
  3. Buy that logo gear. People will recognize your logo when your out and ask you about it. So don't write it off as a frivolous thing.
  4. Be appreciative. It's always a good idea -- and you'll stand out in someone's mind if you take the time to send a thank you note. This is especially important if you've made a new connection with another business owner.
  5. Reciprocate. Relationships are two way streets. When you make new connections, be sure to support them in the way you want them to support you. 

Thank you!

Thank you all so much for all participating in this challenge with me. I enjoyed it so much and I hope you did too. In case you missed a week or just need a place to go and get all the resources I've shared, follow this link. You can download them all from my dropbox account. 

If you have any questions or need anything, please reach out. Best way is to email me at jamie@allagmedia.com or message me on Facebook or Instagram.