This year more than ever, we have noticed an increase in the number of people networking – successfully. Perhaps it’s a result of the economic climate and people have naturally gravitated together… or maybe it is because this is the way we best communicate – either way …it should not be overlooked!
Yes, given the demands on our time (business, professional & personal lives) it’s easy to put this activity on the ‘To Do List” at the bottom… but consider this:
1. We are constantly being introduced to new people every day, with no disruption to our schedules.
2. By not consistently widening our circles of acquaintances/contacts, we could be curtailing our chances for advancement and success. It’s estimated that the average person knows about 250 people – and each of those people knows, in turn, another 250 or so people. This means that for each new person you meet, you gain access to a potential pool of 62,500 people separated from you by just two degrees!
Out of so many people, chances are you will find a person (or several) who could be a source of information about a better job/additional clients or customers/a speaking engagement/where to shop for better value, and much more.
In short, the experts say that networking is one of the most profitable activities in which one can engage.
Like all things – one gets more proficient with practice – but it takes very little time or effort to get it right. All it requires is a slight shift in attitude, and adopting one simple rule:
Meet each new acquaintance with an openness to learn more about that person, a willingness to help, and an offer to stay in touch.
This approach is applicable to every form of networking, from business or social; and whether the encounter takes place in person or, as frequently happens today, online.
Face to Face; Yes, it does pay to network in person (not only to meet new people) to keep your communication skills sharp. Practice making friendly conversation; even if no relationship develops with that person, he or she will likely remember you as a “nice guy/woman ” if asked about you at some point in the future.
If you feel you are too busy to go to networking events, attend only those vital to your professional or business standing. Make the best of chance and casual meetings that occur during the course of your normal workday.
Another hint that expert networkers off is to ‘take more business cards than you give out.’ This way you are more in control of the tempo of developing relationships.
On-line: The power of online networking is in the viral effect so unique to the Internet. I belong to an online networking community that has tens of thousands of members. And it’s cheap!
So don’t let the old ‘lack of time’ excuse prevent you reaching out and finding someone who could possibly be on your side in the business of life!
