​In the fast-paced business world, establishing and nurturing connections is often a key driver of success. Networking is no longer about exchanging business cards at a business event. It’s a strategic and integral part of building a thriving professional ecosystem.
 
Big Deal views networking as a building block within an overarching strategic plan. We’ve gathered some easy steps, tips, and insightful questions to help you become a master networker, breaking the ice and truly connecting with others!

The Significance of Business Networking

1. Building Bridges, Breaking Barriers: Networking is a bridge that connects professionals, breaking down barriers and fostering collaboration. It opens doors to opportunities that may not have been possible otherwise.
2. Knowledge Exchange: Networking allows for the exchange of ideas, experiences, and industry insights. Learning from others and staying informed can give your business a competitive edge.
3. Creating a Support System: Owning and operating a business can be challenging. Networking can build a support system of like-minded individuals who understand your journey and can offer guidance or mentorship.
4. Access to Resources: Whether it’s access to sponsorship funding, partnerships, or valuable skills - networking expands your resource pool.

 
Tips for Networking Success

1. Be Authentic: Real connections stem from authenticity. Be yourself, share your passions, and listen actively to others.
2. Set Clear Goals: What is it you would like to achieve through networking? Whether it’s finding new clients, collaborators, sponsors, or mentors, having a clear set of goals should guide your interactions and conversations.
3. Diversify Your Network: Make sure you are casting a wide net. Connect with professionals from various industries and backgrounds - even those who are way different than your own. These connections will enrich your perspective and broaden your opportunities.
4. Follow Up: Building new relationships requires effort. Follow up with your new contacts, express gratitude for their time, and nurture those connections over time.

30 Icebreaker Questions for Meaningful Connections
Arrive to your next networking event armed with some thought-provoking and conversation-building questions! You’ll establish a deeper connection and stronger rapport with a new contact if you move beyond the typical, “So what do you do?” questions. Here are some of our favorites:

1. What inspired you to pursue your current career?
2. Can you share a career highlight or achievement that you’re particularly proud of?
3. How do you stay updated on industry trends?
4. Any upcoming travel plans?
5. What brought you here today?
6. How do you two know each other?
7. What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy week?
8. What are you reading currently?
9. What goals are you currently working towards, both personally and professionally?
10. What was your first job?
11. What’s one thing you’re excited about that’s coming up in 2024?
12. Tell me about your current role?
13. Tell me about yourself.
14. Have you been here before?
15. Do you mind recommending……
16. Have you worked on any exciting projects lately?
17. How long have you been with your company?
18. What do you like most about working in this area?
19. Did you grow up in this area?
20. How did you hear about this event?
21. Do you attend a lot of networking events?
22. What’s your best networking tip for introverts?
23. You seem to be having a great time - mind if I join you?
24. Do you mind if I introduce myself?
25. Have you attended any conferences lately?
26. What are some common misconceptions about your role?
27. Which skills do people overemphasize in your industry?
28. Are you working on any side projects at the moment?
29. What do you enjoy most about your job?
30. Do you know XXXX? Could you introduce me to them?

 
These questions are designed to spark meaningful conversations. They should help you move beyond surface-level interactions and build lasting connections.
 
Remember, successful networking is not just about what you can gain, but also about what you can contribute to the professional community. So - get out there - network with a purpose, and watch your business thrive!
 
Discover more of our business and marketing tips when you follow BIG DEAL Company on social media: Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram. Stay current on industry trends and follow our latest events in our blog. Looking for some marketing support? Reach out to our team of marketing professionals. Every client we serve is a BIG DEAL!

​It’s so easy to get caught up in your same old routine when it comes to your marketing strategy.  BIG DEAL Company is always keeping an eye out for whatever the next big thing is.  Shake it up with this list of 2024’s list of projected hot marketing trends.

Two words…video content! - Video continues to dominate online content. Consider including video content in your marketing strategy, such as product demos, tutorials, testimonials, and behind-the-scenes.
 
Embrace the future – Let’s face it, artificial intelligence (AI) is our future and honestly, learning to use it can save you time and frustration.  Use AI to enhance customer interactions, automate routine tasks, provide instant customer support, and gather valuable data for marketing insights.
 
Interact with your audience – Capture the attention of your customers and clients with interactive content like polls, quizzes, and surveys.  Not only is it fun for them, but it also provides you with valuable data.
 
Go green - Consumers are increasingly concerned about environmental and social issues. Highlight your company's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
 
Give ‘em what they want - Tailor your marketing messages to individual preferences and behaviors. Leverage your data analytics and automations (like Google Analytics) to create personalized experiences that speak to their preferences.
 
Good old customer experience - Customer experience remains a key differentiator. Prioritize seamless, user-friendly experiences across all touchpoints (check out our Website Health Check Blog for a few tips) to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Up your local SEO and micro-moments game - Optimize your online presence for local searches, as consumers increasingly rely on their mobile devices for quick, location-based information during micro-moments.
 
User-Generated Content – Not all businesses need or can get user-generated content, but if it fits your model, it can be a highly impactful way to tell your story.  User-generated content can build trust and authenticity while expanding your reach.
 
As you dive into the new year, consider diving into new ways to grow your marketing plan.  Be prepared to adapt strategies to your specific industry, target audience, and business goals. Regularly assess the performance of your marketing efforts and be prepared to make changes based on evolving trends and consumer trends.  BIG DEAL Company is here to help you through the jungle of marketing and we’re just a click away.

​In the dynamic landscape of business, where seasons change and economies fluctuate, the conventional wisdom has often been to tighten belts and cut back on expenses during slow seasons or economic downturns. However, recent research is challenging this paradigm, suggesting that strategic marketing during these challenging periods can be a crucial factor in a business's survival and long-term success.

​The Power of Visibility
Visibility is key in any market, and maintaining a consistent presence during slow seasons can pay dividends when conditions improve. A study published in the Journal of Business and Economic Research found that companies that continued marketing efforts during economic downturns not only fared better during the slump but also experienced a faster and more robust recovery when the market rebounded.
 
By maintaining visibility through marketing initiatives, businesses can keep their brand fresh in the minds of consumers. These efforts ensure that when customers are ready to make purchasing decisions, the brand they remember is the one that stayed present even during challenging times.
 
Building Customer Loyalty
Research conducted by the American Marketing Association highlights the importance of building and nurturing customer relationships during slow seasons. Customers who feel a connection to a brand are more likely to remain loyal, even when economic conditions are tough. Strategic marketing that focuses on building brand loyalty, such as personalized communication and exclusive offers, can be instrumental in retaining customers during slow periods.
 
Moreover, the Harvard Business Review published findings indicating that companies investing in customer retention during economic downturns achieved higher profitability in the long run compared to those focusing solely on customer acquisition. This underscores the value of maintaining and strengthening existing customer relationships during challenging economic times.
 
Adaptability and Innovation
Slow seasons often provide businesses with the opportunity to innovate and adapt to changing market dynamics. Marketing research conducted by McKinsey & Company suggests that companies that invest in research and development during economic downturns outperform their competitors when the market recovers. This highlights the importance of using slow seasons as a time for strategic reflection, innovation, and preparation for future growth.
 
The cost of NOT marketing your business could outweigh the savings from pulling back on your advertising spend. BIG DEAL Company has years of experience working on ways to stay visible without breaking the bank! Visibility, customer loyalty, and adaptability are crucial elements that can be nurtured through strategic marketing initiatives, ultimately contributing to a business's resilience and long-term success. Trust us to treat your business like we do our own.

​As an events and marketing company committed to supporting nonprofits, we understand the critical role sponsorships play in the success of your events. Securing sponsorships not only provides financial support but also cultivates partnerships that amplify your cause, expand your reach, and provide opportunity for future support.
 
The current sponsorship climate is challenging: We’re seeing fewer sponsors at lower amounts and fewer donations. To help you boost sponsorships for your nonprofit events, we've curated some innovative strategies designed to elevate your sponsorship game.

​Tailored Partnership Packages
Craft personalized sponsorship packages that align with each sponsor's values and objectives. Highlight the unique ways their support can make a tangible impact on your cause.

Specific Perks vs. Vague Labels
Avoid themed sponsorship levels like “lion” vs. “jaguar” or “cultivator” vs. “planter” – these terms don’t convey meaning or hierarchy to potential sponsors. Today’s savvy sponsors want straightforward explanations of their return on investment. If you stick with the traditional silver, gold, and platinum sponsorship tiers, remember to list tangible benefits.
 
Sponsorship tiers tied to one aspect of your event are increasingly popular. For example, a “bar sponsor” may invest $5,000 to sponsor your event’s bar in exchange for branded cocktails named after your sponsor and customized napkins and bar signage featuring the sponsor’s logo.

A 'safety sponsor' may support your festival with an investment to be the sole naming sponsor for the ride share pick up area and water station.

Providing exposure and value are of utmost importance.
 
Enhanced Digital Presence
Leverage the power of digital platforms to showcase sponsor visibility. Develop engaging content, such as sponsor spotlights, behind-the-scenes glimpses, or dedicated social media campaigns, highlighting sponsors' contributions and involvement.
 
Collaborative Experience Opportunities
Create opportunities for sponsors to actively engage with event attendees. Interactive booths, sponsored activities, or workshops aligned with sponsors' expertise can deepen attendee interaction and leave a lasting impression. Encourage sponsors to share their knowledge or products in ways that enrich the event experience.

Impactful Storytelling
Craft compelling narratives that emphasize the shared values between your nonprofit and potential sponsors. Showcase real stories of impact, illustrating how sponsorships directly contribute to making a difference in the community. Personalized storytelling can create an emotional connection and resonate deeply with potential sponsors. Effective brand storytelling enhances nonprofit marketing efforts.
 
Data-Driven Insights
Utilize data analytics to demonstrate the tangible returns on investment for sponsors. Provide post-event reports showcasing key metrics, attendee demographics, and engagement insights. Show your sponsors how many monthly visitors will see their logo on your website or how many followers will see your social media post thanking them for supporting your mission.
 
Concrete data illustrating the reach and impact of their sponsorship can attract and retain sponsors for future events.
 
Year-Round Engagement
Establish ongoing communication with sponsors beyond the event. Offer year-round partnership opportunities that extend beyond event day. This could include exclusive networking events, co-branded campaigns, or acknowledgment in regular newsletters to maintain the relationship and demonstrate ongoing value. Don’t miss out on potential year-round donors who may prefer a long-term partnership to a single event investment.
 
Sustainable and Ethical Branding
Showcase how your event aligns with sponsors' corporate social responsibility goals. Incorporate eco-friendly practices, ethical sourcing, or charitable initiatives that resonate with sponsors who prioritize social impact.

Innovative sponsorships thrive on creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of both your nonprofit's mission and your potential sponsors' needs. By implementing these strategies, you can cultivate meaningful partnerships that go beyond financial support, creating a lasting impact and expanding the reach of your cause.

At BIG DEAL Company, we're dedicated to helping nonprofits elevate their events and secure impactful sponsorships. Contact us today to explore how we can collaborate to make your next event a resounding success.

BIG DEAL Company was the proud event planning partner for the Loveland Chamber of Commerce and their annual Valentine Press Conference. We had a great press turn-out and were delighted to showcase all of the MAJOR announcements, celebrating love and driving tourism to the Sweetheart City!

The following partners were acknowledged:

• McKayley Lane, Miss Loveland Valentine and chaperone Norma Jean Goodheart
• Jacque Leivestad, Loveland Post Office as well as the postmaster Chad Daniel
• Cindy Mackin, Visit Loveland
• Guy McConnell, Grimm Brothers 
• Gus Aguirre, Top of the Lake Coffee
• Brian Cook, Colorado Candy Company
• David Burks, Sweetheart Winery & Event Center
• Corry McDowell, Collector’s Envelope Artwork & Postal Cancellation Stamp Designer
• Tiffany Villavicencio, Card Designer 
•  Brenda S. Glover, Card Verse Author
•  Jeani Bork, Cachet Verse Author ​
• Sweetheart City Racing
• Christine Forster, BIG DEAL Company

A downloadable copy of the official press release is below.

Your BIG DEAL Press Conference Planners: Amy & Christine: