Networking – some do it with ease. Others cringe. And more avoid it at all costs unless absolutely necessary. But, why? In most cases if you’re in business you are already doing it and probably not even thinking about it. Not calling it by name. Networking only becomes that fancy-schmancy word to be avoided when we label it as “networking.”
Networking is meeting people. Period. If you’re attending an event, on social media, out-and-about during your work day you are meeting people. We meet people daily. We get to know people with hopes that they will have some interest in getting to know us, too.
Generally, networking is done for two reasons:
- to make connections that will lead us to something we want to get closer to, and
- to make friends.
The four top reasons a business professional seeks to network are:
- for leads,
- for referrals,
- for information or training, e.g. to learn something, and
- for friendships.
The next time you network try focusing on one of these reasons and realize the difference it makes. It’s being intentional. It’s okay to want to meet someone with the intent of it leading to referrals or asking out right to be their preferred referral source.
Avoid attending an event with the purpose of collecting fistfuls of business cards. Business cards shouldn’t be collected like sports trading cards. These bits of paper represent people. If you don’t know anything about the person behind the card the paper is just that paper. Not worth much.
Take time to get to know individuals so you can understand what’s important to them. Knowing this information aids you in tailoring your products and services. This information is better than anything gathered from an anonymous survey because later on should you want more information you have a warm heartbeat that you know that you talk with and…learn more. You won’t need to rely on statistical information when deciding how to fill a need. You know people. You get firsthand information. Those this firsthand information have the opportunity to be first to serve. First to fill needs that others may not realize.
All from getting to know people. From meeting people, which you do, almost daily.
As a professional I encourage you to know why you’re networking – have a goal. From that you will know where to spend your time. You will find meeting people becomes easier and more meaningful. More rewarding.
If you and I haven’t become friends on social media reach out to me. My links are below. I’m happy to add friends to my circle and hope to get to know you better so I can introduce you to my friends, too.