When every dollar counts, networking can become your best form of marketing. Not only can this lead to sales opportunities for your company, but it also allows for the sharing of ideas to improve production — and profits— in business.

This was never more apparent than at the recent Wood Component Manufacturers Assn. Fall Meeting and Plant Tour event in Louisville, KY, where nearly 150 industry representatives were given the opportunity to learn about new programs that can affect their business, and also see woodworking technology in action at several area manufacturing and assembly plants: Cox Interior Inc., Lebanon Oak Flooring Co., Kitchen Kompact, VT Industries, Northland Corp., Anderson Wood Products Co. and Kentucky Cooperage/Independent Stave Co.

What makes this unique was the willingness not only of the plant tour hosts to share their knowledge with others that are essentially their competitors, but the discussions that followed afterward as we moved from plant to plant, with questions being asked and answered regarding best practices and other production tips. As one member put it, “If I’m busy and can’t do an order for someone, I’ll refer them to another association member in the area, and likewise, they’d do the same. We’re all in this together.”

In addition to joining — and actively participating — in industry associations, trade shows, such as the upcoming WMS show in Canada, are also an important venue for networking. Take advantage of the opportunities afforded to get noticed, and to meet others in your field. Personal referrals and word of mouth advertising can be invaluable to your long-term success.