In Business / October 2007
Networking
Networking for real results means pursuing opportunities that benefit all parties involved. Building relationships and resources should be your main goal, not exchanging business cards and telephone numbers. Real networking results from the follow up and continued dialogue. It is better to establish two to three new networking contacts than to get ten to twenty names and telephone numbers.
To establish building effective networks, focus on the person rather than selling or collection cards. Find something in common with that person and listen to the challenges they face. At the end of a conversation, exchange business cards. Send your new contact a magazine article of interest, or a brief note expanding on a comment or question from your conversation. This makes you real and gives you creditability. If you listen, you’ll hear opportunities to be of service.
You network daily without ever even thinking about it. For example, you will find networking opportunities at your child’s school, your alumni association, your church, your professional organization(s), charity events, neighborhood associations, etc. We are involved with these types of contact on a daily basis.
The reality of it all is that you get back what you put into the networking. Used effectively and with mutual respect, networking can result in significant business leads. Statistics show that 60-80% of business comes from referrals.
The heart of any business is your connection with other businesses and individuals. Networking, any activity designed to create, maintain and utilize interpersonal connections, is an essential business skill. But not all business people take the time to truly master this vital skill.
Copyright © 2007 A Woman's View. All rights reserved.
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