Networking and Cultivating Business Relationships
By Debra Schweikowsky | December 31, 2025
What is networking, and why is it so important for your business? Networking is simply people meeting people—sharing experiences, exchanging knowledge, and forming meaningful connections. It can be a powerful source of inspiration and insight.
For business owners, networking offers the opportunity to meet other entrepreneurs, learn what others are experiencing in real time, and gain valuable perspectives that can shape decisions. You might connect on a personal level, as a business professional in your field, or with someone in a complementary industry. You may meet an industry leader or someone who can add value to your business—an attorney, accountant, insurance agent, Florida SBDC consultant, marketing specialist, identify a potential partnership, or new clients.
Networking benefits businesses of every size, from startups to established companies. Professional connections can help you today and in the future through new job leads, business opportunities, community involvement, collaboration, idea-sharing, and conversations and what is trending with innovation, technology, AI powered automation, and cross industry networking opportunities.
Where to Network and How to Build Strong Connections
Clients often ask where to network, how to join conversations, and how to cultivate relationships. The good news is that opportunities exist throughout the week.
- Local chambers of commerce host meetings, lunch-and-learn events, and year-round activities.
- Industry groups and professional associations keep you connected within your business community.
- Community organizations and your local Florida SBDC center also offer great opportunities to engage.
- Online and digital platforms this could include Linkedin, Facebook groups, or industry specific groups.
Networking takes practice—and a bit of etiquette. While you can easily find lists of do’s and don’ts online, my best advice is simple: be authentic and genuine. Focus on creating meaningful connections.
Here are a few practical tips:
- Be a good listener. Show interest in their work and experiences.
- Build rapport. Find common ground—a shared hobby or mutual interest can spark connection.
- Prepare your 30-second introduction. When it’s your turn, people will want to know who you are and what you do.
- Stay positive. Avoid negativity and resist the urge to sell yourself immediately.
- Bring business cards but think of them as a tool for later follow-up rather than a pitch.
- Ask questions—but not overly personal ones. Show genuine curiosity while respecting boundaries.
- Focus on what you can offer. This is not the time to ask for a sale. Instead, build relationships through support, guidance, and insight.
- Have an exit strategy. You don’t want to appear too aggressive, overstay the conversation, or monopolize the discussion. Listen, speak, and allow room for others to contribute.
- Leave a positive impression.
Most importantly, follow up the next day with a short email or connect on social media such as LinkedIn. Maintaining new connections is just as important as making them.
Make Networking a Strategic Priority
Set a new goal for your business: attend a networking event, prepare your introduction, listen actively, and join a conversation. Networking remains one of the most valuable sources of information, support, and opportunity. By building and nurturing relationships, you strengthen not only your network—but your business as a whole.
Debra Schweikowsky
Consultants, Finance, Pinellas, SchweikowskyFlorida SBDC at Pinellas County Economic Development
Specialty: Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP-BCA), Capital Access, Finance
Debra Schweikowsky is a business professional with experience in business management, administration, banking and finance. She was a small business owner with more than 20 years of experience, including as a franchisee. As a business owner, she successfully implemented a variety of revenue enhancement strategies and is results driven. As a franchisee, she successfully implemented a variety of revenue enhancements, sales tactics, and marketing initiatives, to increase revenues. Schweikowsky successfully sold her business by following an established exit strategy.