Planning and networking should be on the radar of entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations in 2025.

Small and medium-sized companies face the constant challenge of growing and standing out amid rapid transformations and high competitiveness in the market. According to a study by Sebrae, half of the businesses close before completing five years, with lack of planning being one of the main reasons for this index.

Thinking about it, strategic planning and networking are indispensable tools for SMEs. This is because, in addition to being able to increase revenue and build solid businesses, building a solid network of contacts can help overcome barriers, especially for companies that have limited resources. 

According to Samuel Modesto, accountant graduated from FACAPE, tax specialist from FJN-CE and author of the book “Beyond Numbers”, “, strategy definition is essential for SMEs to achieve their goals.When you work with clear goals and a plan aligned with market needs, you can better leverage your resources, reduce expenses and identify opportunities that drive the” billing, he explains.

How to define strategies and expand professional contacts

Strategic planning is not only a tool for short-term growth, but also for building solid and resilient businesses over time. Modesto also highlights the importance of networking as a strategic differentiator for entrepreneurs. “The exchange of experiences and the building of connections help open doors, generate partnerships and even access markets that, by themselves, would not be possible to achieve”, he says.

For companies that want to boost their results, the first step is to map clear objectives and set priorities. Modesto suggests dividing the goals into short, medium and long term, establishing performance indicators to measure progress.“An efficient plan needs to be constantly reviewed. It is essential to adjust strategies as the market changes and new opportunities arise”, he warns.

With regard to networking, the tip is to start participating in industry-specific events. Prepare yourself first: take business cards, get to know the participants beforehand and have a clear speech about what your company offers.“Networking efficiently is not just about exchanging contacts, but building value relationships based on trust and mutual collaboration”, Modesto reinforces.

“INDEP Business Connection: event creates bridges to business success

During the event “Connection Empresarial”, which takes place in Petrolina (PE), on January 27, Modesto, with the participation of six other experts from the San Francisco Valley, will conduct an in-depth immersion on how to strategically plan to increase revenue and achieve the long-awaited financial stability.

In addition, the training offers the opportunity to use networking in a practical way.“Our goal is to offer tools that entrepreneurs and small entrepreneurs can apply immediately, optimizing processes, exploring new opportunities and building professional relationships that add value to their businesses”, says the mentor.