How you can combine marketing and networking into an event for your business

There are multiple ways to engage with your customers, referral partners, new and existing, while building relationships. One great way to incorporate marketing and relationship building is to host an event. It doesn't have to be a huge, elaborate, expensive event either. Here's a couple of tips to help you create your own event.

CUSTOMERS Email marketing is a great way to stay in touch with your customers but an event allows you to connect with your customers on a more personal level. Host an event such as "Coffee and Conversation" where First Time Home Buyers can meet you at a local coffee to discuss the home buying process. Its more like a "meet and greet", with a hint of marketing. Ask your customers to bring friends and family!

START A RUNNING CLUB

As the weather starts to get warmer, outdoor activities become more appealing to the avid jogger. Search running trails or create a "scenic jogging route". Invite your customers and referral partners for a "running in the city" event or your favorite park.

FAMILY EVENTS Most loan officers will partner with a real estate agent to host a first time home buyer seminar but here's a chance to collaborate with your business partners on an event geared towards families. Partner with a local artist and host a family paint day or pottery making class. It's a fun way to meet your customers and their families!

NETWORKING EVENT Sometimes you have to create what it is you're looking for and networking events are one of them. Host your own networking event. Partner with local business owners. Instead of having to chase customers, you'll have the opportunity to be in a room full of potential customers and referral partners!

Remember, your events don't have to be huge, elaborate, expensive events. Small and intimate is perfectly fine! The idea is to connect with your customers and referral partners on a intimate level outside of the usual "email" or random newsletters. What creative ways have you used to network and market with your customers?