How to Build Business Connections (Even If You Hate Networking)

June 25, 2025

It's All About Relationships.

Even though being part of the chamber is one of the easiest ways to increase your network, we understand that some business pros can’t make it to networking events. But networking is incredibly important because people want to do business with those they know, like, and trust. If you don’t have the time to attend networking events, there are ways to network.


You don’t need a name tag and a stack of business cards to make powerful connections. In fact, some of the best networking happens outside of formal events (even though our events are lots of fun and you should check them out for yourself). As a business owner, every week is different and sometimes you just can’t get it all done. But while event attendance may not always be possible, networking is.


Here are 7 real-world ways to build relationships that help grow your business:



1. Turn Conversations Into Opportunities

You don’t need a pitch—just be curious. Chat with the person next to you at the coffee shop. Ask your dog groomer about their busiest seasons. People love to talk about their work.


Listen well, ask thoughtful questions, and you’ll be surprised how often the conversation turns back to your business and how you might help. If it doesn’t, you may be able to connect them with someone who can help and that goes a long way to building a relationship too.


Further Reading:

- How To Turn Small Talk into Big Opportunities



2. Support Other Local Businesses (and Let Them Know It)

Buy your birthday gifts at the local boutique. Post a picture of your favorite sandwich shop and tag them on social media. Become someone they recognize online. It doesn’t take much to become a top fan or reviewer.


It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or be hard, either – take a picture of where you went out to eat lunch and tell people about your favorite meal there. Try a new menu item. Visit a store of the first time. You don’t have to do this daily, start with an easy goal and go from there.

 

This can also be done from your business page, or your personal page.



3. Volunteer Where Your Ideal Customers Hang Out

If your ideal clients are parents, volunteer at the school carnival. If they’re fitness buffs, sign up to help at a local 5K. We also have plenty of volunteer opportunities at the chamber.


You’re not there to sell—just to show up and be helpful. But you’ll naturally meet people, build trust, and become that friendly, local business owner everyone remembers.


This goes for attending regular events where your ideal audience hangs out. For instance, if you own a cleaning business, look to attend events where you’ll run into real estate professionals. They are often asked for referrals, and they’ll likely refer people they know, not from an ad on the internet.


Volunteer Ideas for Meeting People:

-         The Chamber!

-         LV Arts

-         Fort Leavenworth Spouses Club

-         Camp Leavenworth (booths, information & a 5k!)

-         Leavenworth County Historical Society

-         Leavenworth Historical Museum Association

-         Leavenworth County Humane Society

-         Stronghold Food Pantry


Further Reading:

- The Leadership Edge You’re Overlooking: Why Volunteering Pays Off



4. Host Something Low-Key and Useful

If you have the time, host your own event but make it casual and valuable. Think:


·        “Coffee & Questions” at your shop once a month

·        A short Q&A on Instagram Live

·        A small invite-only roundtable for local businesses in related (or complementary) industries


No sales pitch. Just connection and value.


Consider even partnering with a location. Check out our dining listings here. Or do you have a location to host events yourself? Let us know!

 

The Chamber is also currently looking for coffee hosts for 2026! Contact us at Office@LLChamber.com for available dates and requirements.


5. Be Generous With Referrals


If you meet someone great recommend them. Tag them. Share their info. When you refer people without expecting anything in return, they remember you as someone who adds value. And guess who they’ll think of when they need your services?



6. Use Your Content as a Conversation Starter


Posting regularly on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, or even a local Facebook group gives people a way to get to know you and comment, share, or reach out. Content can spark conversations that turn into real-world relationships. Just keep it real: show your face, your story, and your expertise in bite-sized, helpful ways and do it consistently if you want people to recognize and remember you.


Also consider becoming a speaker for a luncheon or informational forum.


7. Ask for Introductions


Nobody likes a pushy salesperson. Don’t go into an interaction with the question, “I sell X. Want to buy some?” or “Do you know anyone who needs X?” They don’t even know you yet and you’re asking them to put their name on the line with their network and refer you.


You want a referral to be a good thing for both you, the person being referred, and the one doing the referring. You get the sale, the person being referred gets good service or a quality product, and the referrer looks like a super star to their friend who needed something. That’s why you don’t want to go in demanding a referral. There’s too much at stake for the referrer.


Instead, try:


“Hey, I’m trying to meet more people who [insert industry or shared interest]. Do you know anyone who’d be open to a quick coffee or a 10-minute chat?”


It’s not pushy. It’s human. And when people know what kind of connection you’re looking for, they’re often happy to help.




Networking Is Just Relationship Building


You’re not trying to collect business cards. There’s no prize for that unless you’re trying to get into the record book and that’s not a record you want to go for. (The current record is over 52,000 and the most collected in 24 hours is 414.)


Instead, try building a reputation as someone people trust, like, and want to support. That happens through small, repeated actions, not by accruing piles of cards.


Start with one conversation a week. One kind comment. One helpful share. One coffee.

Before you know it, you’ll be networking without even realizing it.


And come to our next networking event as well. We’d love to hear how your connections are going.


Did you know? Our Chamber Coffees and Ribbon Cuttings are great events to get to know people. And they don’t require an RSVP! So no last minute panicking if you forgot, or if something turns up and you can’t make it after all. Ribbon Cuttings are a way for people to remember you as someone who came to help them celebrate. Chamber Coffees first have guaranteed caffeine, and second, are hosted at different locations each month. A new chance to meet people, or a good way to catch up with someone with a busy schedule.

 

If you’re looking for a more focused program, no problem. We also have monthly Women’s Division luncheons, Military Affairs Council meetings, as well as Government Affairs Committee meetings.


Further Reading:


-         The Referral Revival

-         Navigating Networking: When to Say No

-         Local Business Partnerships Strengthen Communities and Drive Growth

-         FORD vs. HEFE: Frameworks for Networking and Small Talk

-         15+ Creative Partnership Ideas to Boost Customer Engagement and Sales



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Christina Metcalf is a writer and speaker who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She is the author of The Glinda Principle, rediscovering the magic within.

_______________________________________

Medium: @christinametcalf

Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking

Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor

LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

How to Build Loyalty Without Spending a Dime on Ads

August 4, 2025
When you’re building a small business, it’s easy to focus on the day-to-day grind—inventory, customer service, cash flow, and that never-ending inbox.

9 Customer Loyalty Programs That Work

July 28, 2025
Attracting new customers is important, but building loyalty is where long-term success happens. Loyal customers spend more, visit more often, and refer others. According to business.com, they spend 67% more than first-time customers. Cultivating that loyalty takes more than just great service. It takes creativity, consistency, and value-driven engagement. Whether you run a retail store, restaurant, gym, salon, or professional service firm, there are many inventive ways to reward loyal customers and turn them into your best advocates. Rewards Programs One loyalty tactic that has been around long before the internet is a simple rewards program. Punch cards are a timeless option because they work. Whether it’s “buy 9 coffees, get the 10th free,” or “get a free appetizer after five lunch visits,” customers love a visible, tangible progress tracker. For businesses that want to modernize the concept, there are plenty of easy-to-use digital punch card apps that eliminate the need for physical cards while still offering the same satisfaction of reaching a goal. Reusable Loyalty Product If your business sells products or services that people buy frequently, consider creating a reusable loyalty item. You probably have visited a coffee shop that offers branded refillable cups where customers get discounted drinks every time they bring the cup. Smoothie and juice bars can use the same concept. This approach is environmentally friendly and encourages repeat visits. Plus, it serves as mobile advertising when customers carry your branded cup around town. Not selling food or drinks? That’s okay. Sell merch for your business and every time someone wears it into your establishment, give them a small discount for “being a fan.” Off-season Rewards For businesses that rely on seasonal sales, loyalty programs can reward off-season engagement. A clothing boutique might offer a VIP summer sale to top customers who shopped consistently during the slower winter months. A lawn care company could provide early-bird discounts in the spring to clients who stayed on board through the fall. AC companies can offer a “head start on summer” discount for customers who book before the hot season. This tactic keeps customers connected during quiet periods and evens out your sales cycle. Add-ons Service businesses have equally creative options for rewarding loyalty. Salons and spas can offer free add-ons after a certain number of visits, think a complimentary scalp massage, a product sample, or a mini facial upgrade. Gyms and fitness studios could give loyal members branded merchandise like water bottles or workout towels, or even a free guest pass to bring a friend. Pet groomers might reward frequent clients with a free pet treat or small grooming upgrade, creating small moments of surprise and delight. Members-only Members-only programs in businesses are catching on as many businesses have found out that customers are willing to pay a small yearly (or monthly) fee to have access to specials, discounts, or secret sales. Restaurants can mix it up by offering special menu items only available to loyalty members, or hosting an exclusive monthly “members-only” happy hour. Similarly, bars and breweries can roll out a mug club, where members pay a small fee for their own glass or mug and receive larger pours or discounted drinks throughout the year. These kinds of programs tap into a sense of belonging and exclusivity, making customers feel like insiders. Personalization and Appreciation Knowing what your customers want is key to creating loyalty. Reward loyalty through early access to sales (or new rollouts), VIP shopping nights, or birthday discounts. Add a personal touch by tracking customer preferences and offering tailored discounts (like a favorite brand or product) based on purchase history. Offer “surprise boxes” or curated gift packages for your most loyal customers during the holidays, adding a layer of appreciation that goes beyond standard sales promotions. Rewarding Referrals Professional services, like accounting firms, law offices, or real estate agencies, can create loyalty by rewarding client referrals and repeat business. For example, a tax preparation firm could offer returning clients a discount or bonus service (you can make this date capped so that people will use the discount sooner and not during your busy season), such as a free mid-year financial check-in. Real estate agents can send home anniversary gifts, calendars, or cards to clients who purchased a home through them, staying top of mind long after the sale is complete. Competition Another fun idea is incorporating competition into loyalty efforts. Consider what action you want your customers to take. Businesses can set up friendly challenges, such as a “Top Referrer” program where the customer who refers the most friends in a quarter wins a bigger prize. Fitness studios might run “most classes attended” contests with tiered rewards. Offices or coworking spaces can offer contests for checking in, using conference rooms, or attending events. Bookstores can offer “readers’ rewards” with discounts after a set number of purchases, or host exclusive book clubs. Florists can reward repeat customers with a complimentary bouquet after multiple orders or surprise them with a small arrangement during their birthday month. The point of any loyalty program is to make your customers feel seen and appreciated. This needn’t be costly. A simple handwritten thank you card, a surprise discount, or a personalized acknowledgment goes a long way in an age where much of business is automated. Loyalty grows when customers know you value their business and reward their commitment in meaningful ways. As the holiday season approaches, it’s a great time to launch or refresh your loyalty program. Contact the chamber and let them know about your promotional ideas. Networking opportunities provide you an additional platform from which to share your loyalty strategies with the community. Building loyalty is more than a marketing tactic. It’s an investment in long-term relationships that fuel sustained business growth and help you stand out from your competition. ------ Christina Metcalf is a writer and women’s speaker who believes in the power of story. She works with small businesses, chambers of commerce, and business professionals who want to make an impression and grow a loyal customer/member base. She is the author of The Glinda Principle , rediscovering the magic within. _______________________________________ Medium: @christinametcalf Facebook: @tellyourstorygetemtalking Instagram: @christinametcalfauthor LinkedIn: @christinagsmith

Revenue Without Regret: Designing Offers You’re Proud to Sell

July 28, 2025
Growth shouldn’t come at the cost of trust. Your best offers align with your values. Ethical, high-value offers strengthen customer loyalty and long-term revenue. The best sales strategy? Solving real problems for the right people, not selling everything to everyone. Design offers you would recommend to your best friend. That is the standard for lasting success. 580 words ~ 3 min. read Revenue and reputation are deeply linked. Too many businesses chase short-term gains at the expense of long-term trust. The most successful leaders understand that growth built on misaligned offers, services or products that don’t truly serve customers, eventually backfires. Customers can sense when a business values sales over solutions, and trust once lost is nearly impossible to rebuild. Building offers you’re proud to sell means aligning profit with purpose. When you design services or products that genuinely solve problems for the people you serve, you not only drive revenue but also strengthen your brand’s credibility. Customers who feel understood and respected are far more likely to become repeat buyers, refer others, and advocate for your business. The Alignment Test A simple way to evaluate your offers is to ask yourself: Would I feel good recommending this to a friend or family member? If the answer is not a confident yes, it is time to revisit the structure, pricing, or positioning of your offer. Too many businesses overpromise, underdeliver, or add features customers don’t need just to justify higher prices. Instead, focus on creating offers that feel authentic, provide clear value, and are priced fairly for the transformation they deliver. Trust as a Growth Strategy Trust is more than a feel-good value. It is a competitive advantage. In markets crowded with choices, customers gravitate to businesses they believe in. That belief is earned when your offers consistently match or exceed expectations. Transparent pricing, honest marketing, and realistic promises are not just ethical. They are smart business. A disappointed customer might never complain to you, but they will share their experience with others. On the other hand, customers who trust you often become your strongest advocates. Word-of-mouth referrals remain one of the most powerful growth drivers, and they only happen when people feel good about recommending you. Designing High-Value, Ethical Offers Ethical selling does not mean undercharging or shying away from profit. In fact, premium pricing can be part of an ethical business strategy when your offer delivers exceptional value. The key is clarity. Communicate exactly what customers will receive, who it is best suited for, and how it will solve their problem. Businesses should regularly evaluate offers against three questions: Does this solve a real problem for my ideal customer? Does the price reflect both the value delivered and the effort required? Would I feel proud to stand behind this publicly and privately? If the answer is yes to all three, you are on solid ground.  The Bottom Line Revenue without regret is possible when you align what you sell with what you believe. Ethical, customer-focused offers build trust, deepen loyalty, and generate long-term profitability. The strongest businesses are not just chasing sales. They are building relationships, and that is the kind of growth that lasts. --- The Leavenworth-Lansing Area Chamber of Commerce is a private non-profit organization that aims to support the growth and development of local businesses and our regional economy. We strive to create content that not only educates but also fosters a sense of connection and collaboration among our readers. Join us as we explore topics such as economic development, networking opportunities, upcoming events, and success stories from our vibrant community. Our resources provide insights, advice, and news that are relevant to business owners, entrepreneurs, and community members alike. The Chamber has been granted license to publish this content provided by Chamber Today, a service of ChamberThink Strategies LLC.