I don’t have time to network.

You are running your business, working on the job site, caring for children, caring for elderly parents, and trying to figure out the schedule of the next job.  We often hear “I’m so busy and I just don’t have the time” or “The economy is so good I can’t bid all the opportunities that are out there as it is” or worse “In my business it is low bid and relationships don’t matter.”

Choosing not to make time for networking is a mistake with unintended consequences.  Relationships are the key to a successful business- which means taking time to network is essential.  The boom economy could turn on a dime, just ask your peers that survived the last downturn.  If you don’t have a circle of clients you won’t have business.

When a company is no longer visible externally they can become less relevant for future business. The reasons are far more basic then you think.

1. They are forgotten. A business might be cranking out projects and increasing revenue now. But just wait till the projects become scarce.
2. Weak relationships. Those potential clients that you haven’t been getting to know will be less likely to put their faith in you when it matters.
3. New Kids on the Block. There is always a new competitor.  If that new business is making the time to forge relationships with your clients you eventually will lose work to them.
4. New Kids in the House. We know that the PMs and Estimators are changing every day.  Your PM may just have moved on without the existing team knowing who you are.

The best way to maximize your time is to be strategic.  Make time at least once a month to attend something, have coffee with a new prospect, take the old prospect to lunch, post on social media and comment on other posts.  Be visible and when you are visible be present.  Your future business will thank you for the effort.