How to Make Networking Work For You – part 1

For some people, a networking event is excruciating, intimidating and even feels physically and emotionally painful. Some people consider networking to be a waste of time, because they don’t see immediate results.   To others, networking is fun. It is something they look forward to. These people are the ones you see who look like naturals. They are visibly enjoying themselves and look as though they are spending time with old friends.   So, what’s the difference between the two? Is there a secret to successful networking?   There are no secrets for successful networking, but there are some very valuable and simple steps to follow to make your networking experience something that is both enjoyable and profitable for you.   Businesses have found that networking can be one of the most efficient, effective and cost-effective ways of marketing your business, your products and your services. Networking is a great way for you to become known within a community of individuals who are also coming together for the purpose of marketing themselves and their business.   So, if everyone goes to a networking meeting to become known, how could networking possibly work? The answer lies in the INTENTION of the attendees.   The most successful Networkers know that networking is not all about them. It’s not about handing out and collecting as many business cards as possible in an hour and a half. It’s not about continually talking about them and being the center of attention..   The most successful Networkers know that networking is ALL about creating relationships. It’s about making connections, showing up and being fully present. It’s also about consistency.   You see, networking is not a one-shot deal. Networking is a process. And great relationships don’t happen in a single meeting… they grow over time.   The purpose of networking is to be with groups of people often enough so that you get to know them and they get to know you. Great relationships occur over a series of conversations, not just a 30-second introductory “commercial”.   This is not to say that you can’t go to a meeting one time and meet the exact person who has the perfect contact for you to expand your business. What is true is this: If you are meeting the perfect person with the perfect contacts for the first time, will they feel comfortable referring you? Will they be willing, on the first time meeting you, to refer you to their long-time colleagues and associates, family and friends?   Think about it… When you refer someone, your OWN reputation goes right along with that referral. If you refer someone and it works out, then you’re a hero and the person you gave the referral to will trust your judgment in the future. If it doesn’t work out, then they might be less likely to trust your referrals and you. Therefore, it is important to get to know the people you will be referring and to let them get to know you. This way they feel good about referring you and you feel good about referring them. This is what creating relationships is about. This is what great networking is about.   It’s not about selling. It’s not about you. It’s about the group. It’s about getting to really know people and letting them get to really know you. It’s about consistently showing up, and especially, successful networking is about creating great relationships! Now, that’s Powerful!

Sue Urda is the Co-Founder of Powerful You! Women’s Network and a two-time Inc. 500 Fastest-Growing Private Companies honoree. Her vision is to contribute to a global consciousness of women helping women succeed in business and in life and to expand Powerful You! by creating chapters around the US and beyond. Sue’s mission is to create venues for women to grow their businesses and nurture relationships, and to foster empowerment, gratitude and self-development. www.powerfulyou.com ~ sue.urda@powerfulyou.com