Local arts events such as the symphony, theater, ballet, etc.: The largest benefactors of the arts are local businessmen. They not only go to the events but get invited to the social events that accompany them.

Formal networking groups: Today there are many formal networking groups that meet regularly with the primary purpose of exchanging leads. Pick the one that has the largest membership of business owners. Avoid ones that are made up of very small businesses and salespeople. Don’t limit yourself to the groups in your town, but expand your horizon to other communities where you want to do more business. Don’t be shy about giving leads. In most cases you won’t get quality leads until you prove yourself as a lead giver. When you get your chance to talk at these meetings, be very specific on the types of leads that you want.

Listen Closely

What do you talk about with when you meet other CEOs? Don’t talk about your business, but rather ask questions about them and their businesses. CEOs, generally speaking, have big egos and they love to talk about their businesses and themselves. What you do will come up at some point, but keep it short. The key is to get to know more about their businesses and what makes them tick.

Remember that one the primary responsibilities for you, as the CEO of your printing business, is to promote your business. You are the face of your business and it’s a fact that the more people of influence you get to know, the more business you will get. Every sales consultant will tell you to start your sales prospecting effort by getting an appointment with the top executive. You will be amazed by how easy it is to do business with a company if you know the owner.