To network or not to network…
… that is the question. To gain new business relationships and contacts, that is the answer!
We all know that networking has become an integral aspect of growing our business. But are we networking consistently and effectively? Sure, we talk our “industry lingo” when we are around each other, and quite well I might add. Ask yourself these questions:
- Are you going out of your way to attend true networking events and activities?
- Do you arrange these activities into your schedule and have a plan for what you will accomplish at them?
- Do you attend with the intention of learning how you can help others?
To understand networking, we first need to realize the vast amount of places and situations that networking opportunities exist. Networking is not just an “After Hours Event” that you attend, bring a stack of business cards, and go about the room glad handing and asking “how’s business?”.
Think rather about where all these opportunities of meeting “potentially powerful people” may be, and go there! By powerful, I mean having the ability to empower, and help someone else, who in turn may return the favor in the future. There it is! Networking is meeting and helping people, so that both of your futures are brighter and more prosperous. That is the unadorned truth; one of the best ways to build relationships is be genuine and see how you can help others get what they need before thinking of how they can help you.
Now that we have established networking as the building and growth of new and strong relationships, where might we find them?
Like looking for your local favorite restaurant, or finding your best fishing hole, you go where the people are biting, where the people you want to attract are; Educational Classes, Seminars, Lunch and Learns, Chamber of Commerce, Car Wash, Doctor’s Office or Member Mixers!! Become a volunteer and/or hold a volunteer position. The list is endless. Sometimes it’s just helping someone with a recommendation for a good accountant or a reliable service station. You’ve heard of “what goes around comes around”. Both the people you refer and the person or company you recommend are now part of your network. If you have the desire to connect and grow, the event or opportunity is out there waiting for you!
There’s an old adage; “It’s not what you know, but who you know” While the statement is true, it also over simplifies. It is also about who knows you. Simply knowing an important person does not necessarily mean they will know and remember you! The other person must perceive you as having worth first, and then they will perceive you as someone worth knowing.
Tips to guide you through Networking;
1) Do less better. You don’t have to attend something weekly. Start small. You don’t have to work the whole room. Find someone you connect with at each and every event; have them introduce you to someone else. Your list will grow faster than you can keep up with. If you have a follow-up assignment for a particular contact, do it right away, but also send a personal note to every contact you make.
2) Prepare an introduction; your little mini “Super Bowl” commercial about who you are and what you do. Keep it simple but memorable so they will want to share your story with others.
3) Speak with confidence; believe in yourself. Others will want to be with you and be associated with you. To be a powerful resource to others, become known as an expert in your own field.
4) Ask questions of others that will provide more than yes or no answers. Show genuine interest in their stories, and start the process of building a relationship based on trust. Remember that people will always choose to do business with someone they know or someone who was recommended to them, over a total stranger!
5) Tell people what you want. “I am looking for….” Can you help me with…”
6) Practice helping others, it will make you feel good, and you will go home happier for having networked.
Effective networking is inexpensive and in many cases it is free!
Put yourself out there; be active, be present and be attentive.
Your new Company Champions and Partners in Business are waiting to meet you! Will it happen this week?