To start networking, join or form a local groomers association and meet regularly. This will help you build relationships and create a support system to help you deal with the daily challenges of grooming. If you work alone, having a group of fellow groomers to collaborate with is invaluable. Sometimes you just need to vent or share your small victories or struggles with someone who understands what you do day to day.

Networking naturally occurs at industry events such as grooming shows, trade shows and seminars where everyone around you is in the same industry and has a lot in common. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Most attendees are there to learn and network so they are eager to interact with new people. Strike up a conversation or ask a question of the person sitting next to you, or with someone at one of the trade show booths. The speakers, competitors and booth personnel are very willing to answer any questions and share their knowledge with you.

There is really no substitute for in-person networking. The relationships and friends you make can last a lifetime. Once you have formed a connection with other pet pros, you can continue to build on it and share important insights, exchange knowledge and stay updated on industry developments.

Join and participate in online pet professional groups and connect with groomers from all over the world. Communicating with your peers allows you to take advantage of the combined knowledge of the other members in the group. They may have already experienced many of the challenges that you face and can solve a problem or question you have, or connect you to the people or resources that can.

Reach out in person and online to those you have seen in the competition ring. Many of them are happy to answer questions and help anyone who wants to begin competing. They will “show you the ropes,” support and encourage your efforts, and introduce you to others who may also be able to help you.

You can cultivate mutually beneficial relationships with veterinarians, boarding and daycare facilities, pet sitters, pet stores or other pet-related businesses in your local area. Having contacts with others in the pet care field can be very advantageous when one of your clients wants a referral or you need some information in their field of expertise.

Even businesses that are not pet related can be valuable resources to you. For instance, a real estate company could give your brochures and business cards to every new-home purchaser. Businesses that clean carpets and homes could send a lot of business your way and, in turn, you can recommend their services to your clients.

Being seen at community events keeps you in the public eye and gives prospective clients the opportunity to meet you. You can offer nail clipping at a rescue organization’s adoption day, or take part in a local parade and feature some of your beautifully groomed pets while you and your staff members carry banners and wear clothes that identify and promote your business.

Always have business cards with you and hand them out to anyone you can. In addition to your standard paper business cards, you can have digital or e-business cards. These digital cards have a QR code that gives you the ability to share all your digital contact information instantly with anyone.

Your clients can network for you. Something as simple as a referral program that rewards your client when someone they refer also becomes your client really builds loyalty while increasing your bottom line.

It’s important to have a professional-looking business website to send people to, and to have a strong social media presence. Frequent interaction with your existing contacts and clients through newsletters and social media posts will keep your business in the forefront and set you apart from others.

Blogging is also a great way to reach potential clients and showcase your accomplishments and expertise in the grooming world. Focus on your qualifications, awards and the services that you offer. As people share them with others, your circle of influence will expand.

You will discover that networking really is an indispensable tool. It can take you and your career to places you never imagined possible and achieve success you have only dreamed about!