SMART NETWORKING.

Let me confess something…
For a long time, the word “networking” made me nervous. 🤯
I pictured a room full of people in suits, talking business jargon and handing out business cards like flyers.

But everything changed when I realized that networking isn’t about selling — it’s about connecting. Genuinely. Honestly.

Today, I want to share how you can build real, valuable relationships to grow your business — without pretending to be someone you’re not.

Because right here in Philadelphia, there are hundreds of Latino-owned businesses like yours, just waiting to connect with you.

📌 The goal isn’t to find customers…
It’s to build relationships that may become opportunities.

🔹 Real-life example:
You meet Carla at a local business mixer. She runs a catering service, and you own a party supply store.
You just have a casual chat — no sales pitch.
A month later, she calls you for a birthday event. 💥 Boom!
A partnership is born.

🎯 Key Questions:

• Do you approach networking with fear or curiosity?
• Are you showing up as a person — or just a salesperson?
• Are you genuinely interested in other people’s stories?

📌 Can you explain who you are and what you do in a simple, memorable way?

🔹 Real-life example:
Instead of saying: “I’m a business consultant,” try:
👉 “I help Latino entrepreneurs organize their ideas so their businesses grow with more clarity and less stress.”

💡 That resonates!

🎯 Key Questions:

• Can you describe what you do without complicated terms?
• Does your intro spark interest — or confusion?
• Do you clearly say who you help and how?

📌 No one wants to meet someone who only talks about themselves.
To make a real impression, ask questions, listen, and show interest.

🔹 Real-life example:
At a networking event, you meet Pedro who sells cleaning products. Instead of jumping into your pitch, you ask:
👉 “How did you start your business?”
👉 “What’s your favorite part of what you do?”
That kind of sincere interest goes a long way.

🎯 Key Questions:

• Are you genuinely curious about others?
• Do you actively listen during business conversations?
• Do you take notes about what people share with you?

📌 Sometimes we search for big opportunities online…
And forget about the local fairs, meetups, and community events filled with people just like us.

🔹 Real-life example:
You visit a community event in South Philly. You meet three new business owners. One owns a print shop — and ends up making your new flyers.

🎯 Key Questions:

• Are you keeping track of local events in your area?
• When was the last time you attended one?
• Are you open to meeting people face-to-face?

📌 Meeting someone is just the beginning. The magic is in the follow-up.

🔹 Real-life example:
You met Ana (she runs a flower shop). The next day, you send a message:
👉 “It was great meeting you yesterday! If you ever want to collaborate on events, I’m here.”
That tiny step could be your best move all month.

🎯 Key Questions:

• Are you following up with the people you meet?
• Do you save their info or let it slip away?
• Do you offer something specific in your follow-ups?

Networking doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or fake.
It’s a powerful tool to grow, learn, and build meaningful partnerships.

🎯 If you’re a Latino entrepreneur in Philadelphia, here’s where to start:

• Shift your mindset: connect, don’t sell
• Prepare a clear intro
• Listen more than you talk
• Show up at local events
• And follow up with kindness

Because you never know when a casual chat becomes a game-changing connection. 🚀

I can help you — shall we talk?