Digital marketing and networking – They’re stronger together
Running a business today looks very different than it did even five or six years ago. That’s because before, the world was getting online and now the world is now very much driven by all things digital.
People live on their phones - because phones aren’t just for making calls. They’re an instant link to the world and all it has to offer.
So, whether people are scrolling social media, checking Google reviews, or shopping through their phones, your digital presence has become just as important as your physical one.
This doesn’t mean traditional networking is less valuable.
In fact, it’s quite the opposite. When you combine strong digital marketing with the trusted connections you build through TNG, you give your business the best of both worlds.
What is digital marketing?
Digital marketing is the use of online channels, like websites, blogs, social media, search engines, and email, to promote your business.
Unlike traditional advertising (e.g. print or networking), it’s interactive. People can comment, message, click through, and book or purchase instantly. From wherever they are in the world.
Digital marketing is about meeting clients where they already spend their time these days: on their phones, tablets, and computers.
Digital marketing gets beyond your physical location
One of the biggest advantages of digital marketing is that it removes geographical limits. A client doesn’t need to be in your suburb, or even your region, to find and connect with you.
That means:
A builder in Auckland could showcase projects to attract clients in Tauranga and expand into that area.
A coach in Hamilton could reach people across the country through LinkedIn.
An e-commerce store could expand sales beyond New Zealand with smart online campaigns.
When combined with the credibility you build in person through networking, digital marketing can give you both local trust and wider reach.
What is networking?
Networking is all about building relationships that help your business grow. At TNG, this happens through regular meetings, one-on-one catch-ups, and the ongoing support of your group.
Unlike advertising or cold calling, networking is personal.
It gives people the chance to meet you, hear your story, and understand what you do. It’s not just about exchanging business cards, it’s about creating meaningful, trusted connections that lead to referrals, collaborations, and long-term partnerships.
Why networking matters
Here’s why networking is so valuable for business owners:
Trust and credibility: People are far more likely to do business with someone they know personally or who comes recommended by someone they trust.
Word-of-mouth referrals: Networking gives you access to a whole new audience (your fellow members’ networks) through genuine recommendations.
Support and learning: Networking isn’t only about referrals. It’s also about learning from other business owners, getting feedback on your pitch, and sharing challenges in a safe environment.
Confidence and growth: The more you pitch, present, and meet people, the more confident you become in talking about your business.
Networking matters because it’s not just about sales, it’s about relationships. And those relationships often open doors to opportunities you’d never find on your own.
Digital marketing vs networking – and why they’re stronger together
Networking gives you trust, credibility, and genuine word-of-mouth referrals.
When you attend meetings, give your 60-second pitch, or meet someone one-on-one, people see the person behind the business.
They hear your story, get to know your values, and learn what makes your business different. Over time, that personal connection builds confidence and trust - the foundation of long-term referrals and partnerships.
Digital marketing, on the other hand, gives you reach, visibility, and measurable data.
It opens doors beyond your physical network by putting your business in front of people you may never meet in person.
A potential client could find you through a Facebook post, a Google search, or a testimonial on your website. You can see exactly what’s working, refine your approach, and stay visible 24/7 without physically being in the room.
When combined, they amplify each other:
A referral backed by a strong online presence: If someone in your TNG group refers you, the first thing that new contact is likely to do is look you up online. An active social presence and professional website reinforce the recommendation and increase the chance of them reaching out.
A digital presence that makes networking easier: When your fellow members can see what you do online through posts, testimonials, or examples of your work, they’ll find it easier to recommend you confidently to their own networks.
Engagement that bridges the gap between meetings: Likes, shares, tags, and comments from TNG members keep you visible in between fortnightly meetings. That ongoing online activity reminds people of what you do, keeps you top of mind, and introduces you to entirely new audiences through their networks.
A complete business story: Networking shows your character and builds trust face-to-face, while digital marketing demonstrates your expertise and credibility at scale. Together, they tell a complete story that helps potential clients feel confident choosing you.
Together, digital and networking make your business more discoverable, more credible, and more resilient.
If you want to strengthen your in-person connections too, check out our blogs on networking one-on-one meetings and getting the most out of your TNG networking meeting.
How your TNG network helps boost your digital marketing
Your TNG community can be one of your biggest digital marketing assets.
Follow each other’s pages: Every like, share, and comment boosts reach and visibility.
Benefit from TNG tags: TNG regularly tags members in posts, giving your business visibility to a wider audience.
Word-of-mouth goes digital: When members engage with your content, they’re effectively recommending you to their own networks.
It’s the same principle as referrals - help others get seen, and in turn, they’ll help you.
The business world is online, but it’s also still personal. Digital marketing helps you reach more people, while networking helps you build the trust that turns contacts into clients.
Start simple, stay consistent, and lean on your TNG network for support. When we work together both online and offline, we all grow stronger.
Next step: Next time you see a post from a fellow TNG member, take a moment to like, comment, or share it. It’s a small action that can make a big difference.
And, if you still haven’t explored your networking options - join a business networking group that operates nationwide and take the first step towards growth today.
