Networking is just that – working. Networking is not a passive activity. When you go to a networking event, it is not a time to kick your feet up and relax. You should go with the mindset that you are about to do some work.
In this three part series, I am going to share some strategies that have helped me to build my network. I must preface this by saying; by nature, I am shy and introverted. If I had my preferences, I could go days without speaking to anyone outside of my immediate family and friends. However, if you ask anyone that has ever seen me at a networking event, they would swear that I am lying. That is becasue to be successful it is essential that I build a strong network.
Step 1: Build on your natural network. Ask yourself, “Who do I know?” Many times, we overlook the people closest to us because we assume that they know what we do and if they need us, they will contact us. The truth is – a lot of your closest family and friends have no clue about what you do or what you can do for them. Rather than trying to “sell” them, you should inform or educate them about your product/service. They may not need you now but they may in the future and your chances have increased that you may be the person that they consider for the job.
Also, consider taking family or friends to events with you. They may be able to introduce you to someone that they never would have thought could be an asset to your team. It may also help to ease some anxiety for you to know at least one person in the room. The key to this strategy is not spending the evening talking to the person that you know.
Step 2: Make sure the relationship is mutually beneficial because everyone wants to know what is in it for them. If you can’t think of anything that they will get out of it, they may not be a good person to add to your team. There are some selfless people in the world that will help you out of the kindness of their heart but you should make it a Best Practice to go into situations looking for a win-win. This will make you someone that people want to work with again in the future.
Networking is about building relationships. You can not be successful if you go to events, give everyone your business card then sit back and wait for the phone to start ringing off the hook. People give money and do business with people that they know, to their friends.
Come back and learn the next steps in the art of networking…
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