How To Build Business Connections in Bensalem

Are you preparing to launch a Bensalem business? Quality connections could help you a lot. Whether you run a local bakery or a tech startup, your business will fare better with solid industry associations and ongoing community involvement.

Bensalem in Bucks County is a great place to live and work. Safe and conveniently located, with a rich entertainment and recreation culture, it’s a prime spot for entrepreneurs. The following tips will help you when starting a business in Bensalem.

1. Going to a Networking Event? Do Your Homework

Networking events provide fantastic opportunities to meet useful people and build business partnerships. We recommend doing some research before an event so you come prepared. Who is likely to attend? How can connecting with them help your business? How would you approach and engage with this person? 

You should also have robust follow-up strategies (e.g., calling or emailing a new contact within 48 hours) to strengthen the connection you started at an event.

2. Be Active on Social Media 

Social media engagement ramps up your visibility big time. Use LinkedIn to build your business connections just as you would use Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to reach potential clients. Put out useful content that marks you as an industry authority and add value to discussions to gain followers. 

3. Nurture Your Existing Contacts

When starting a Bensalem business, you might throw all your efforts into making as many new contacts as possible. However, you should also make an effort to preserve existing business relationships, including people you haven’t talked to in a while.

For example, friends from college or long-time colleagues could turn out to be useful business contacts. Look up your old contacts on social media and LinkedIn.

4. Offer Help Without Expecting an Instant Return

Generosity attracts people in personal and business relationships. When you start networking, approach contacts with the mindset of “What can I do for this person?” instead of “What can they do for me?”

Obviously, you’re networking for your business, but a professional connection should be a two-way street. You can always offer something: experience, insight, contacts, or genuine interest.

5. Give Back to the Community

Some of the most successful local businesses have robust social values. While community involvement isn’t direct networking, it will help you connect with Bensalem and build trust.

Not sure where to start? Depending on your business type, you could provide services at no cost to low-income families, volunteer, or work with local charities. Consider hosting a charitable event, holding a raffle, or sponsoring a sports team. You could also pledge to donate a percentage of your profits to a local cause.

Are You Bringing a Business to Bensalem? Give Us a Call

The Bensalem Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) is here to help your company thrive. We can help you overcome many hurdles new businesses face, like zoning issues, locating top talent, and sourcing funding. Get in touch to learn what we can do for your Bensalem business.