When we network, we are getting to know people for various reasons. But these days, it is much more than just to get a project going or simply making friends. Networking success has become much more sophisticated and often purposeful. However, what does one do to make networking fruitful rather than a waste of time? Here are 10 networking gems.
Networking In Any Situation
1) Networking is like a business.
In fact, networking these days is often a catch phrase of business meetings. Once realized, you come prepared with your business card or some form of contact document like a pamphlet or even a CD. This is so that your contacts remember you. You’re promoting.
2) Note and remember your contact.
Always get your contacts’ accredition (contact info) and make a quick note to contact him or her on the specific topic. Write it down and call the next day about it or when ever asked to.
3) Networking for a business.
Many companies require you to network extensively to make sales or build a client list. That’s good business. But do they know you? You must keep up and follow through with your contacts so that they become part of your network of people you know. Bigger and more responsive client lists equals more income.
4) May I Call You Regarding…
When networking, you will be meeting many strangers. Small talk is often the case. Done right, you will all be calling each other. But if curiosity is strong enough, ASK to call the new contact who will now become a prospect to show him or her your product or service or reason to call (you may be fund raising). Also, did you make a great case for yourself to generate curiosity?
5) Mindset that everyone wants to be your customer.
It is a positive and powerful mindset to have…only if you believe in your product, your company, your compensation and your own motivation.
6) Not everyone will care.
This is a killer for many new sales people, especially new MLMers. Personal development to believe in #5 above matters a great deal here. But you see, it’s so what, next please.
7) Out of many, few will want to know you.
Most people will not have any interest in knowing you let alone what you want to sell them. Realize this and you’ll have an easier time.
8) Dissapointment sucks.
Most will have a brave face on but are feeling like the world just caved in on them. After networking sessions, just ask and you’ll find many very exhausted and unhappy people leaving. Their energy had deflated. Dissapointment takes the life out of you. That is the wrong attitude. You see, you should care, but not too much.
9) Have Fun.
How many people actually have fun networking? Very, very few. Find fun lovers in such meetings and you’re in good company. They and you will become attractive to others around you. You’re happy, and people want to know you. Also, people will still smile at you and you’ll easily make friends.
10) Intention or Purpose.
When you network, what is your intention? The best one it seems is to intent to meet and know the best people to know who are the best for your business or for you. It is a cultivated feeling and practiced behaviour. Always go with the purpose of Attracting Great people, not trying to catch them. Have you ever tried netting fish? They all swim away as fast as they can don’t they? So better to use bait and
