By Jeannette Punsoni Dardenne

Recently, I had a long conversation with a client about the importance of self-care, positivity, and networking.

Yes, social media can often seem like a black hole. You post again and again and your phone doesn’t ring with people asking for your services.

This does not mean that you should give up.

Instead, it means you should consult with others on ways you may be able to change up your messaging, marketing pitch, and ideas on new lead magnets.

Do me a favor and pick up the phone at least once a week and invite one of your colleagues out for coffee, cocktail, or just conversation.

It will not only help your mental health, but it will be a potential opportunity to find new client connections.

Sure, you could sit behind your desk and wait for business to fall in your lap. Or you could go out, support your community, find your tribe, and connect with like-minded small business owners!

Marketing is more than pushing out emails, updating your website, and throwing social media posts out to the world. It’s about developing relationships that help bring you front and center.

Stop worrying about what people will think of you. Stop overthinking everything you do and put yourself in the mix!

About the Author
Business and marketing strategist Jeannette Punsoni Dardenne is Owner of INGroup Creative, an Advisor at the University of Hartford Entrepreneurial Center and Women’s Business Center, and Co-Owner of Eat IN Connecticut.

Networking at a MetroHartford Alliance (MHA) outdoor meet and greet. Left to right: Curated CT Founder Donald Pendagast, MHA Chief Marketing Officer Jeremey Szechenyi, MHA Content Manager and IDH Website Curator Nan Price, Jeannette.