25th-Feb-2026 • Mohamed Hassan • Business Networking
In today's competitive business landscape, making connections is more important than ever. For small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya, building a strong network can mean the difference between success and stagnation. But where do you start?
Business networking refers to the intentional act of creating, maintaining, and leveraging relationships with other professionals to further your career or business goals.
These connections can provide invaluable resources such as new clients, partnerships, mentorship, advice, and insights. In fact, a study by Kenyan Institute of Management found that 60% of jobs are filled through networking. So, it's clear that building a robust network is crucial for SME growth.
Before diving into the world of business networking, it's essential to identify your goals. Are you looking for new clients? Seeking partnerships or collaborations? Or perhaps you're after valuable advice and mentorship from industry experts.
Once you've established your objectives, it's time to seek out networking opportunities. These could include local business events, industry conferences, trade shows, meetups, and online platforms such as LinkedIn.
An elevator pitch is a concise summary of your business or yourself that can be delivered within the span of an elevator ride. It should be memorable, engaging, and convey the value you offer to potential connections.
After making connections, don't let them slip through your fingers. Follow up with new contacts promptly, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to meet and offering further engagement. Regular communication and nurturing of these relationships will help ensure they remain valuable long-term resources.
Networking isn't just about taking; it's also about giving. Offering assistance, advice, or resources to others in your network can help strengthen relationships and foster a spirit of reciprocity.
By following these steps and embracing the power of networking, small business owners in Kenya can tap into valuable resources to fuel their growth and elevate their businesses to new heights.
