Networking 101 for Women: How to Build a Referral Machine in Metro Detroit
If you’re a woman entrepreneur in Metro Detroit, there’s one tool that can grow your business faster than any paid ad campaign: referrals.
But here’s the catch—referrals don’t just happen. They come from real relationships, trust, and showing up in the right rooms consistently. That’s what true networking is all about.
At DBG Social Connection, we’ve seen it over and over: women who plug into the right network don’t just grow—they thrive.
Here’s how to turn your connections into a referral machine that fuels your business year-round.
👥 Step 1: Show Up (Yes, Even When You’re Nervous)
Networking isn’t just for extroverts or polished pros. It’s for anyone willing to build relationships that matter.
Find a local group (hint: DBG Social Connection meets regularly in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties) and commit to showing up consistently.
👉 Why it works: Familiarity builds trust. Trust leads to referrals.
🧠 Step 2: Don’t Pitch—Share Value
Nobody likes being “sold to” five minutes into a handshake. Instead of diving into a pitch, get curious about others. Ask good questions. Offer helpful insight. Be a connector.
👉 Why it works: People refer people they like and trust, not the person who hands out the most business cards.
🎯 Step 3: Be Clear About What You Do (and Who You Help)
If you say, “I do a little bit of everything,” no one knows how to help you. But if you say, “I help realtors in Macomb County stage homes faster,” now we’re talking.
👉 Why it works: Specific asks lead to specific referrals.
🔁 Step 4: Follow Up & Stay Engaged
The magic isn’t just in the meeting—it’s in the follow-up. Connect on LinkedIn. Send a thank-you message. Invite them to coffee. Networking is just the beginning of the relationship.
👉 Why it works: Staying top-of-mind increases your chances of getting that golden intro.
💬 Step 5: Give Before You Ask
Want referrals? Give them. Shout someone out. Share a post. Make an intro. When you give with no strings attached, people naturally want to return the favor.
👉 Why it works: Generosity builds powerful business karma.
Ready to Build Your Own Referral Machine?
At DBG Social Connection, we’re helping women across Metro Detroit build meaningful networks that turn into real growth. This isn’t about stiff meet-and-greets or forced elevator pitches. It’s about authentic connection and community.
🌐 Join the women growing through connection at www.dbgsc.org
📍 Connect with like-minded professionals in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties
🎯 Grow your business with referrals—not cold leads
Because the right circle can change everything. Let’s build it—together.
#DBGStrong #WomenNetworking #ReferralMarketing #MetroDetroitBusiness #MacombCountyNetworking #WomenInBusiness #SoutheastMichigan
