Understanding Customers Better through Networking
Business networker: Jerestene Saher
JESS Catering ServicesMy name is Jerestene Saher and I own Jess Catering Services. We make custom chocolates, sweets and savouries, custom cakes and other yummy treats. All for your delight.
Why I value business networking
Being a business owner and a sole trader can be a very lonely process. So joining a business network was one of the best things I could have done for myself and for my business. Business networking helps my customer base grow, helps my business keep on track with some of the goals that I have set and to attract more people to know me personally as well as my business. So it is one of the most beautiful things to do and get to get to know people and to feel part of a community, a group of people that are like-minded, who know the trials and tribulations of being a business owner.
One of the most interesting stories I have is that when I started my business a few years ago, I really didn’t know where this business is going to go and how my products…I started with three products. Now I have over six products. So you also understand what your community would like, what your tribe would like to have, and it helps you organically grow.
So I think business networking really helps you to understand your business better and your customer base better. So I would always tell people that it’s great to network on purpose and be part of business networks.
My networking groups
I belong to several business network groups. One of the biggest network groups I belong to is Business Network International, also known worldwide as BNI. That is my main source of income as well. And the main source of my customer base. Not only the people in my chapter, but actually everyone around them, their networks and their friends. And those people that know people from within that chapter.
I’m also part of other network groups. It may not necessarily be a business network, but also a community network like Rotary, which also is a very good source of your customer base. But actually, your involvement within the community as well, so yeah, be part of different networks.
