Mention the word networking and you usually get a “where and
when” response or a look of “not me!” For the latter, a networking event
can be synonymous with a root canal. But it doesn’t have to be painful.
Unlike things like parenting, which you learn only when you become
one, you can learn to network.
For starters, instead of viewing networking as something you “must
do,” it helps to think of it as a tool to help you grow your business. That is,
actually, what it is. It’s meeting people… talking, sharing, discussing.
It’s not going to a function where you know you’ll feel uncomfortable and
handing out all your business cards. Nor is it to see how many cards
you can collect
So let’s simplify it. Let’s take the nets and split them at their base
components… or what I call nuances.
1. Networking is about meeting new people and building your network.
It is not a shameless sale. In fact, “in your face” sellers are not
good networkers. They turn people off.
2. Illuminate.
Stop thinking of a networking event as something you’re bound to get
through. Instead, think of it as an opportunity to meet interesting people at a
Comfortable atmosphere with good food and drink. take some of the
depressurization
3. You are not being graded on this.
People are not there to see if you are doing a good job or not.
Do not care
Networking events present opportunities to build your network. Period.
4. Learn from the professionals.
There are people who love to network and do so regularly. Probably
meet some They write books and newsletters. They build websites in
networks. Visit their websites and read their books.
5. Feign interest, if necessary, until you feel it.
Twelve-step groups teach you to “act as if…” Try it. act as if you were
having fun and you just might find out that you are. sometimes it’s just
overcome the fear of something new.
6. Think about what you have to gain versus what you have to lose.
If networks didn’t work, why would there be so many networks?
events? Things are not successful if they are failing. There has to be something
to win if so many people attend these functions.
7. How are you building your business?
100% of my business comes from client or networking referrals.
It is much cheaper than placing ads or running commercials. All you need
They are business cards. You don’t even have to hire anyone…although yes
hire salespeople, you’ll want to make sure they can network like
part of the job
8. Networking adds value.
How? Because growing your network helps your customers. And be
able to help your customers add value to your services. the most
people you know, the more contacts you have for services and goods.
This helps you become a resource to your clients and colleagues.
My clients know that they can call me for almost anything and I
I can probably help you. If I didn’t network, there would be no way to
do this.
9. Networking helps you learn and grow.
Small business owners, especially, can be left isolated. It is important
stay active in your business community and in your industry. You
you need to be up to date on what is happening that affects your business. You
you need to stay on top of trends. And one of the easiest ways to do this is by
networking…union of organizations, chambers of commerce, networking
groups… attending events, conferences, seminars and workshops.
So if you’ve been avoiding the nets, now is a good time to
give it a try. You have nothing to lose and a lot of potential business to
gain.
Copyright © 2004 Rickey Gold and Associates