A prior blog post, “What to look for in a joint venture partner”, generated a great discussion about joint ventures. And a lot of questions. Here’s one question that I thought was really good and deserves further attention:
“How can you connect with JV partners when you are just starting out? Why would they want to work with someone who doesn’t have a list? I am a holistic practioner but am in the process of transitioning to Health and Wellness Consultant. I have always helped people it is what I do but now I want to help more people at once.”
So let’s talk about some ways you can connect with joint venture partners, even if you’re just starting out.
1. Your own network
The people in your own network are a great place to start because they already know, like and trust you. This could include family, friends, colleagues, people you know through associations or networking events, etc.
Even if they aren’t a potential joint venture partner, reach out to your friends and colleagues to see if they can refer you to someone who is a good fit.
2. Your Mentors
You shouldn’t assume your coach or mentor will promote you (unless that was part of the deal), and of course, it might not be a good fit based on your niche and theirs. But it can’t hurt to reach out and ask for their support in whatever form that might take. For instance, they could send an email introducing you to someone who would be a good fit for you. Don’t forget, your mentors want to see you succeed.
3. Clients
Another group with which you’ve already established trust is your clients. You would be amazed at how many of your clients are already out there promoting you. And if they knew they could get paid for doing so, it’s a real win-win.
So let your happy clients know how to sign up as an affiliate partner. Some of those clients will be a good fit to become full joint venture partners for you as well.
4. Social Media
Social media is one of the best places to connect with potential joint venture partners. Before you approach them, be sure you get to know them and their work. That means you should get on their list. See what they’re passionate about, what they’re working on, and how they market themselves.
Then when you do approach them, you can make a real connection. So rather than just send a connection request, send a personal message to let them know what you like best about what they’re up to.
And remember to come from a place of service. Tell them what you love about what they’re doing and would like to connect to learn more about how you can best support them. Then be sure to follow through!
5. Live Events
Some of the best joint venture partners are people you meet at live events. There’s just something really powerful about sitting next to someone and sharing a cup of tea or a meal.
Just be sure to follow up, because you know as well as I do, that live events can get you all jazzed up but it’s when you get back home that the real work takes place.
6. Telesummits and Giveaway Events
One of my favorite ways to connect with prospective joint venture partners is through telesummits and giveaway events. If you’re participating in a telesummit or giveaway event as a contributor, then reach out to the other contributors and get to know them.
If you’re new and haven’t yet established yourself as a contributor, then connect with the people who organize these events and let them know you would be happy to support their event. You can offer to do an interview, provide a bonus gift, or even just promote the event.
How do you find these events in the first place? You’ll probably see them being promoted on social media or from other people’s lists. You can also Google “telesummit” and words relevant to your niche.
Even if that event has passed, connect with the organizer. They’re likely to do other events in the future.
What other ways have you found effective to find joint venture partners? Please leave a comment below. Let’s share and learn together!
I’d say blog challenges are a pretty good place, the same goes for support and accountability groups for your kind of business.
Those are great additions Linda – thank you! And you made me think of another opportunity, along those lines. Facebook groups for programs you’re doing. I have a very active Facebook group for my TALI members, and I know that people have connected in various ways to support one another and work with one another through that group.
I had similr experiences with the Biztopia group 🙂