Build relationships in your industry to construct your success

Why even small connections can lead to business growth and how PR can get you there

In business, it’s easy to become trapped in your own little silo. You get so focused on building your company that you forget to be a part of your industry. With help from public relations, you can build more relationships in your field.

Running a successful business takes having a laser-like spotlight on branding strategies, reputation management and growth. However, you also need industry relationships to stay connected and share best practices. PR is all about relationship building, and you can use these tools and tips to make it easier to achieve the same results in your industry.

Why it’s important to build relationships in your industry

Networking: Having mutually beneficial relationships can help with everything from finding the right vendors to meeting key investors.

Awards: Winning awards in your industry can help you attract publicity and distinguish your company from the competition. Who typically judges these awards? Other leaders in your field, that’s who. This makes building relationships all the more important.

Relationships create new relationships: You never know where your next big client, concept or opportunity will come from. Making a good impression today could lead to new business and connections in the future.

What you need to do to build relationships

Attend events.

You can’t meet anyone locked in your office all day. Hobnobbing with others in your field can serve to provide new ideas, spark creativity and glean information about trends and challenges.

Host events.

Who says you have to wait for opportunities to find you? You may be more successful creating them yourself. It doesn’t have to be some massive, global, weeklong affair. If you’ve never done it before, start small with a webinar, business dinner or charity event.

Connect with influencers.

In every industry, there are those who people listen to. By hitching your wagon to people who have already developed a following and built trust, you can tap into their power or authority. The key is to offer something of value, such as exclusive access or professional expertise, in exchange for introductions and promotions.

Encourage honest communication and feedback.

You can solicit critiques from your customers and employees, but no one understands your industry better than those who are in the trenches with you. It’s impossible to correct blunders and missteps if you don’t know about them.

Be personal and proactive.

Get to know people and make the effort to stay in touch. Social media makes this easy. Sharing an occasional post or sending friendly Tweets will go a long way when it comes time to ask for a favor or get help in building your business.

Hire a PR firm to help you.

A strong industry presence helps you rise to the top of your field and establish credibility among your peers, customers and target audiences. It starts with communication, and that starts with PR.

At Axia Public Relations, we will get your business noticed – by prospects, customers and other industry leaders. We will help you build a favorable impression, make friends and increase your influence. To learn more about our industry relations services, contact us or download our e-book, Maximizing Your Public Relations Investment.

Lisa Goldsberry is a writer for Axia Public Relations with more than 15 years of public relations experience. She specializes in business and technology PR. Lisa has worked for Axia since December 2013. Learn more about Lisa Goldsberry. Connect with Axia on Twitter @axiapr or tell us what you think in the comments below.