Low Cost Marketing Part 2: Networking That Feels Natural

Low Cost Marketing Part 2: Networking That Feels Natural

Scaling Strategies

Scaling Strategies

Scaling Strategies

Feb 3, 2025

Feb 3, 2025

Feb 3, 2025

Blog #022

Blog #022

Blog #022

Marketing your practice doesn’t have to mean big ad spends and complex strategies. Often, the best marketing happens in conversations - the conversations where you connect and build relationships that lead to long-term referrals.

That’s where networking comes in. But let’s be real - networking can feel awkward, especially if you’re an introvert. Instead of focusing on what you can get, shift your mindset to what you can give. That simple change can make networking feel more natural and meaningful. 

Here are five practical, low-cost ways to make networking work for you, without feeling awkward or pushy.

Join Professional Groups & Organizations

If you’re not already in a professional association or networking group, you’re missing an easy way to connect with people who can refer clients, offer advice, and collaborate on projects.

  • Join local or national organizations related to your field.

  • Attend meetings, workshops, or online forums and actually participate.

  • Introduce yourself, share insights, and be visible within your comfort zone.  If you are not authentic in your interactions, it will be difficult to make lasting connections. 

Pro Tip: You can’t just join - you have to engage. Comment on discussions, answer questions, and show up consistently.

Get Involved in Your Community

Your next client or referral partner might come from a local event, school, or volunteer group. Being visible in your community builds trust and gets your name out there organically.  Networking is about being of service and building relationships.

  • Sponsor or volunteer at local events that align with your practice.

  • Offer free workshops or Q&A sessions for parents, educators, or caregivers.

  • Connect with local businesses and organizations that serve similar populations.

Collaborate on Projects

You can’t do it all alone. Collaborating with other professionals can expand your reach and bring mutual value to both parties.

  • Partner on webinars, presentations, or training sessions.

  • Work with complementary providers to co-author articles or blogs.

  • Offer joint services with professionals in related fields (e.g., SLP + OT).

These collaborations position you as an expert while introducing you to new audiences.

Cross-Refer with Related Providers

You don’t compete with every professional in your field.  We all bring something unique to the table.  Many of your colleagues will offer different specialties or serve different populations. Build a trusted referral network with people whose services complement yours.

  • Identify practitioners with overlapping expertise.

  • Set up mutual referral agreements where you send clients to each other.

  • Be genuine in your referrals, your reputation is on the line, too!.

Example: If you specialize in early childhood, connect with providers who work with older kids or adults so referrals naturally flow both ways.

Follow Up (Because One Conversation Isn’t Enough)

Networking doesn’t stop when you exchange contact info. If you don’t follow up, it’s like never meeting at all.

  • Send a quick email or message thanking them for the conversation.

  • Offer a resource or suggestion related to your discussion.

  • Set a reminder to check in periodically - don’t just disappear!

Stay in touch before you need something. That way, when the opportunity arises, the relationship is already there.

Networking Is a Long-Term Strategy

You will not get instant results from networking - you need to build relationships over time. The more you engage, collaborate, and show up for others, the more people will remember and refer you.

So, where can you start right now? Pick one of these five strategies and take action this week. The best connections happen when you put yourself out there.

Want to learn more?

Ready to Uncover your True Potential?

Explore our range of services or book a consultation to start your journey toward personal and professional growth with Layers.

Unveiling the Layers of Your Allied Health Practice.

Address

1312 17th St, #2346 Denver, CO 80202

Unveiling the Layers of Your Allied Health Practice.

Address

1312 17th St, #2346 Denver, CO 80202

Unveiling the Layers of Your Allied Health Practice.

Address

1312 17th St, #2346 Denver, CO 80202