E-220 Building Your Network – Tools to building your Business Networking Group

In the fast-paced world of pool service and maintenance, technical skills will only take you so far. The real game-changer? Your network. Whether you're a seasoned pool professional or just starting out, the relationships you build within the industry can make or break your business success. In a recent episode of the Pool Nation Podcast, hosts Edgar De Jesus, John 'JJ Flawless', and Zach 'The Pool Boy' Nicholas dove deep into the art of business networking, sharing insights that could transform how you approach professional relationships in the pool industry.

The Foundation of Pool Industry Success: Why Networking Matters

The pool industry is unique in many ways, but one thing remains constant across all markets: relationships drive business. Unlike many industries where transactions can happen in isolation, pool service requires trust, reliability, and ongoing communication. Customers invite pool professionals into their personal spaces, often their backyards where families gather and memories are made.

This intimate business environment means that referrals and word-of-mouth marketing carry exceptional weight. A single satisfied customer can lead to dozens of new clients through their network of friends, neighbors, and family members. Similarly, other pool professionals can become invaluable sources of referrals, emergency backup, and knowledge sharing.

The hosts emphasize that networking isn't just about collecting business cards or adding connections on social media. It's about building genuine relationships that create mutual value over time. When pool professionals support each other, the entire industry benefits from higher standards, better customer service, and increased professionalism.

Building Your Professional Network: Events and Opportunities

The Pool Nation team practices what they preach when it comes to networking. Their annual conference and awards ceremony serve as prime examples of how industry events can foster meaningful connections. As Edgar mentioned during the episode:

We have four different tracks we're doing technical business hands-on and retail we're really excited to be able to get out there and meet everybody if you haven't registered and you want to go you can go to the psp expo site

— Edgar De Jesus, Pool Nation Podcast

Industry conferences, trade shows, and local chapter meetings provide structured environments for networking. These events offer several advantages:

• Shared Learning: Educational sessions create natural conversation starters and common ground
• Vendor Connections: Meet suppliers and manufacturers who can become valuable business partners
• Geographic Diversity: Connect with professionals from different markets who face similar challenges
• Structured Networking: Organized events often include dedicated networking time and icebreaker activities

Beyond formal events, consider joining professional organizations like the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) or local pool service associations. These groups often host regular meetings, training sessions, and social events that facilitate ongoing relationship building.

The Pool Nation Conference Model: Creating Value Through Connection

The hosts shared details about their innovative approach to industry networking through their conference structure. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, they've created targeted tracks that address different aspects of the business:

• Technical Track: Focused on equipment, troubleshooting, and technical skills
• Business Track: Covering operations, growth, and management strategies
• Hands-On Track: Practical, interactive learning experiences
• Retail Track: For pool store owners and retail-focused businesses

This segmented approach ensures that attendees connect with others who share similar challenges and goals. It's a model that other networking groups and local chapters could adopt to maximize the value of their events.

One particularly innovative feature they've introduced is the "Pool Nation Business Bar," which Edgar described as:

It's tailored after the apple bar where you show up you bring your apple phone and you go hey i have a problem i don't know how to fix this and they sit down with you and they help you fix it it's the same thing but for business

— Edgar De Jesus, Pool Nation Podcast

This concept transforms traditional networking from casual conversation into actionable problem-solving, creating immediate value for participants while fostering deeper professional relationships.

Overcoming Networking Challenges in a Busy Industry

Pool professionals face unique challenges when it comes to networking. The seasonal nature of the business, demanding schedules during peak season, and the physical demands of the work can make it difficult to prioritize relationship building. John acknowledged these challenges during the discussion:

I don't even know what day it is today that's all i'm doing but i'm chugging along it's crunch time it's the fourth quarter where all the preparations are pretty much we've done what we can

— John 'JJ Flawless', Pool Nation Podcast

However, this busy reality makes networking even more crucial. When you're stretched thin operationally, having a strong network can provide:

• Emergency Support: Other professionals who can help with overflow work or urgent situations
• Knowledge Sharing: Quick access to solutions for unusual problems
• Resource Pooling: Opportunities to share equipment, bulk purchasing, or specialized tools
• Business Coverage: Reliable partners for vacation coverage or medical emergencies

The key is to approach networking strategically rather than reactively. Invest time during slower periods to build relationships that will support you during busy seasons.

Leveraging Technology for Modern Networking

While face-to-face networking remains irreplaceable, modern technology offers powerful tools to maintain and expand professional networks. The Pool Nation Podcast itself demonstrates this principle in action, using digital platforms to connect pool professionals worldwide.

Consider these digital networking strategies:

• Social Media Groups: Join Facebook groups, LinkedIn communities, and industry forums
• Video Conferencing: Participate in virtual meetups and online training sessions
• Content Sharing: Share your expertise through posts, videos, or podcast appearances
• Digital Follow-Up: Maintain connections made at in-person events through regular digital communication

The pandemic proved that meaningful professional relationships can be built and maintained remotely. However, the most effective approach combines digital efficiency with in-person depth.

Building Long-Term Relationships vs. Transactional Networking

The most successful pool professionals understand that networking is a long-term investment rather than a short-term sales tactic. This means focusing on how you can help others rather than what you can get from them.

Consider these relationship-building approaches:

• Knowledge Sharing: Freely share insights, techniques, and lessons learned
• Referral Giving: Send business to others before expecting it in return
• Mentorship: Help newcomers to the industry develop their skills
• Collaboration: Partner on projects, training, or industry initiatives

The Pool Nation team exemplifies this approach through their extensive sponsorship acknowledgments and collaborative attitude. As Edgar noted:

Big huge shout out to heritage biolab hasa blu-ray hayward pool products the sppa solenus tech vector media group lamont ips controllers raypack aquastar natural chemistry ultimate pool tools pool pro magazine

— Edgar De Jesus, Pool Nation Podcast

This recognition of partners and sponsors demonstrates how successful networking involves lifting others up alongside your own success.

Measuring Networking Success and ROI

Like any business investment, networking efforts should be measured and evaluated. However, the returns often come in unexpected ways and over extended timeframes. Track these indicators of networking success:

• Referral Volume: How many new customers come from professional connections
• Problem-Solving Speed: How quickly you can find solutions through your network
• Learning Acceleration: How much faster you adopt new techniques or technologies
• Business Opportunities: Joint ventures, partnerships, or new service offerings that emerge
• Industry Recognition: Awards, speaking opportunities, or leadership positions

The Pool Nation Awards, with their massive attendance and industry impact, represent the ultimate expression of networking ROI. What started as relationship building has evolved into industry leadership and influence.

Remember that some of the most valuable networking returns are intangible: reduced stress from having reliable backup, increased confidence from knowledge sharing, and enhanced reputation from association with respected professionals.

Building a strong professional network in the pool industry isn't just about growing your business—it's about elevating the entire industry. As the Pool Nation team demonstrates through their conference, podcast, and awards program, when pool professionals support each other, everyone benefits. The customers receive better service, the professionals enjoy more sustainable businesses, and the industry as a whole advances toward higher standards and greater respect.

Start small but start today. Whether it's joining a local pool service association, attending an industry conference, or simply reaching out to a fellow professional for a coffee meeting, every networking effort compounds over time. In an industry built on trust and relationships, your network truly is your net worth.

Episode Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Event Preparation
• 05:00 Pool Nation Conference and Awards Details
• 10:00 Sponsor Acknowledgments
• 15:00 Business Networking Discussion
• 20:00 Pool Nation Business Bar Concept