hen you think about the tools you use every day, scissors, high-velocity dryers, combs and brushes probably come to mind; however, there is another equally valuable tool you should be using that can be a real game-changer for you and your career. This tool can help you grow your business, solidify your image and brand, expand your circle of friends and colleagues, and present opportunities for personal and professional growth.

So, what is this amazing tool and where can you get it? The tool is networking! And it’s not something you buy; it’s something you do.

Networking is the process of building relationships and making connections with others who share similar interests, values or experiences. Learning to effectively network can make the difference between a ho-hum job and a phenomenal career. Even if you are the most talented groomer on the planet, what good does it do you if no one knows about your skills?

We have all heard the saying, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” In many ways that is true, and networking can allow you to find people who can help you achieve your personal and career goals.

One way networking works is through the “Six Degrees of Separation” theory. According to Wikipedia; Six degrees of separation is the idea that all people are six, or fewer, social connections away from each other. As a result, a chain of “friend of a friend” statements can be made to connect any two people in a maximum of six steps.

Many of us work with animals because we are more comfortable with them than we are with people. Networking doesn’t come naturally to everyone, but don’t be intimidated. Like any new skill you learn, it takes time and can feel a little overwhelming at first. But with practice, it can become one of the most valuable tools you have.

You can start small. Your first attempt at networking could be as simple as meeting with a local groomer for coffee. Your shared interests will create a basis for topics of conversation. Just that small step can be the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship and friendship.

Do things that make you visible and get noticed, such as volunteering at local shelters or rescue groups. These types of activities will help build your reputation as a knowledgeable professional. You should also carry business cards and brochures with you wherever you go or wear clothing that identifies your business.

You will expand your circle of contacts as you seek out fellow pet care professionals in your community—groomers, veterinarians, trainers, boarding and daycare owners, etc. As you develop relationships with them, you may even set up referral systems that will help your business as well as theirs.

Join or start a local groomers group. You can meet informally, perhaps at a local restaurant, to exchange ideas, form friendships and network. Join associations such as the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA), International Professional Groomers, Inc. (IPG), World Alliance of Grooming Associations Inc. (WAGA) and others. They will help you keep abreast of local and industry-wide news, trends and legislation. And, they provide many ways to connect with colleagues.

Social media platforms can be powerful networking tools. Use them to create content that showcases and builds a buzz around your skills and business. Engage with your followers and collaborate with other influencers.

Industry events provide unlimited opportunities to network. Many lifelong friendships and professional relationships have been formed by attending conferences, seminars and industry shows. They provide a forum to meet, speak with and learn from industry experts. Networking at these events allows you to build relationships and a support team of other pet professionals from all over the world who can give you career advice and support based on their experiences.

Continuing your grooming education will also open more avenues for you. Seeking advanced training will make it possible for you to connect with knowledgeable, top talents in the industry. Their instruction and guidance will enable you to take your skills to higher levels, giving you an edge over your competition and enhancing the trust and confidence your clients will have in you.

Don’t overlook the value and importance of networking with your customers and others in your community. They can be some of the best proponents of your business, and may become valuable allies in your career and life goals. If you have clients that own a business, such as an electrician, landscaper, etc., and you utilize their services, you can build a mutually beneficial relationship by referring each other to your clients.

Get involved in local community activities, especially those related to pets and animals. Sponsor local pet events and participate in charity functions. Being at these events allows you to meet people with similar interests and build your network of contacts, and it will also increase your visibility and show your commitment in the community.

Once you start networking, your sphere of influence will spread like ripples in a pond, reaching an ever-increasing circle of interconnected people who will support, encourage, uplift, present opportunities and open doors for you. If you have a question, a problem, or an idea for a new tool or product, it’s very likely that someone in your network support system will be able to help you or put you in touch with someone who can.

Harness the power of networking—the tool that can take you where you want to go!