6 Ways to Spread the Word with Networking Activities

There are lots of ways for you to let people know that you’re a reflexologist and can help them, but for this post we’re going to focus on word-of-mouth. Specifically one mouth that is. Yours.

You and your connections are a huge asset to your business. And if you don’t think you don’t know the right people, I’d bet you will be surprised in how they can help as well as how easy it can be to get to know the right people too.

That said, time is money and if you’d rather spend money on ads than take the time to talk to people one-on-one that’s great! (I’ve got resources coming for that too. Let me know if you’re interested in them.) Or if your budget is tight and you’d rather put in the time without spending money, then keep reading.

Attend Networking Groups

Networking groups are often a popular option for people wanting to network. It’s what these groups are designed to do. Ask around and see if your town has any networking groups such as a BNI group (makes a great social media post as an opportunity to create engagement). I will add one disclaimer and that is to keep in mind the people going to these groups are looking to promote themselves as much as you are. So they will hear about what you do but are also hearing about the other members and focusing on their business’s needs too. Group members are encouraged to promote each other though, so often members of these groups are good at making referrals and you will be expected to reciprocate too.

You can also get a little exposure but not the full benefits by attending as a guest at the different ones.

Volunteer

I actually find volunteer opportunities to be ideal networking situations if you pick your volunteer activities appropriately. Anything that gets you out and meeting new people is good. It’s quite common for people to ask someone new, “what do you do?” and you have the opportunity to tell them about the wonders of being a reflexologist.

As for choosing appropriately, it’s hard to go wrong in meeting new people as many would benefit from reflexology, but keep in mind:

• Who will I be volunteering with? The same people on a regular basis or meeting new people each time? (There are pros and cons to both of course.) Are they people that have the means to become regular clients? Are they going to be people likely open to a holistic approach? (Others in the medical professions can actually be great sources of referrals but you might need a better approach than a one-time meeting to sell them on how you can help for example.)
• Will I have a chance to engage with the people I’m volunteering with?
• How many people will I be able to engage with while volunteering?

I’m a huge supporter of volunteering out of generosity and kindness and picking causes that you care about and not making it about growing your business. But if you think about it, getting out and volunteering more can have an added bonus of connecting you to more people that you can help with reflexology too. Win-Win.

[lepopup slug=’5-free-graphics-inline’]

Have General Conversations

You run into someone at the store, or wherever and they ask “How are you doing?” You could give the standard reply, “Fine. And you?” Or you can use it as an opportunity to let them know about your business or remind them. Responding with something along the lines of, “Great! I had a couple new reflexology clients this week and I’m so excited about being able to help them. It’s just put me in a great mood. How about you?” Obviously you’ll want to adjust it to be true and reflective of you, but the idea is simple to where it’s okay to bring up your business when talking to acquaintances, friends, family, etc. It’s good to remind them about what you do and how you help people.

Speak to Groups

Lots of groups have speakers. Public speaking can be a huge fear for most people, and if that’s you, try to start small and build up your comfort level that way. Or look for a Toastmasters group. Speaking to groups is a great way to get the word out and you don’t have to teach a class or have a fancy presentation. Just talk to them about what reflexology is and how it helps people, that should come naturally to you. Practice with a friend and see what evolves. Of course putting together a class or fancy presentation is great too, just don’t let it hold you back from trying.

Find Partnerships

Reach out to other like-minded professionals in complementary services to form a referral partnership. One example could be a personal trainer at a gym. Or a natural health food store, etc. The partnership can be a simple as getting to know each other’s services, maybe even doing a trade and then you’ll be able to refer clients back and forth. You can also get creative and put together package deals you market together or joint events, etc.

Attend Events

Attending as a guest offers more ways to have general conversations and build connections, but don’t limit your event thinking to just being an attendee. Look for events that allow you to attend as a vendor with a table display or even where you can do mini or taster sessions (free or paid). Or maybe you can be an event presenter, upping your game from speaking to groups.

Bonus: Post Flyers Around Town

You can’t be everywhere or talk to everyone. Sometimes it’s okay to let a picture (and a few words) speak for you. Lots of businesses have community bulletin boards you can use. And you don’t have to have a fancy flyer, maybe just your business card or a postcard can work too (and might even fit better on the bulletin board).

Want More?

Join the Reflexology Marketing Facebook group and start a post brainstorming more ways. Or join the More Feet Club! One of the benefits is having resources that expand on these tips in more depth, such as where to find speaking opportunities and places to put up your business cards. (And if the resource isn’t there yet, just ask and it will get added!)

Comment below with one thing you’re going to try first. I’m excited to hear what resonates with you!