Attending Business Marketplaces

As some of you may know, today we participated in a small (relatively) business marketplace in our community. The local grocery store has started offering this opportunity for the small, independent businesses in the area. One of the best things about this type of situation is that you get to meet many other small home-based business people that are in your area. In case you are unsure of what I am talking about, this marketplace is a collection of local people (vendors) who put up tables and sometimes tents displaying items or opportunities for sale. You will also find that some of the regular store-front businesses will put out a tent and table in order to draw more attention to their "brick and mortar" place of business.

This type of marketplace is almost like a mini-business meeting. People who may have a home-based business put out tables and display their wares or opportunities. You see an amazing array of what people are doing, and you see some really neat ideas that you would not normally see in one location. Our event included Pre-Paid Legal associates presenting the Pre-Paid Legal Opportunities, there were people who offered a card sending service (if you hate sending thank you or greeting cards, you give that information to this company and they do the work for you...), there were jewelery artists, sculptors, painters, home decor and various food services. It was wonderful to see, even in this very tight economy, so many people working on their own small business, striving to be successful.

One of the best reasons for participating in this event is the impromptu networking that takes place. During periods when the crowds thin, several business owners wander around to other areas to see what is being offered. They may get ideas on how to improve or modify their businesses, or better yet, they may find someone who is offering something complimentary to their business. You may end up finding a group of people who are like-minded and start working to get something going as a new, small group. You may also find other groups who are looking to start a similar marketplace inviting you to attend their upcoming event. The opportunitites for expansion become almost endless.

I find that I learn a lot from the people around me. I make a point of talking to the other vendors surrounding my booth. It is really nice to see so many people working to be independent. You don't feel like you are so alone when you attend one of these events. You now get to meet others who may be going through the same business challenges that you are. You may even find that you can help each other through those common challenges.

If you are a small business, I highly recommend attending a local business marketplace. Even if you never have the time to attend one of the local business meetings (like a local Chamber of Commerce) participating in a local marketplace is a really great way to see how other small business people conduct business. The best part is the friendships you forge at these events. You find you are not alone, and you may have some strengths that another business owner may need at one point in time.

Until tomorrow...