Networking is an art – one on par to drawing stick man and gluing glitter – but an art all the same that uses a basic formula. It also happens to be one of two most valuable and must have skills you need in work and life.
If there is one thing I know, it is networking. Connecting with great minds and not so great, is what I do. Networking really is an art. Perfecting it however, is easy. Using it is ridiculously powerful.
I have to admit, I am absolutely floored by people who ask me why they should network, or suggest they’re not really sure it’s worth their time and effort. My inside voice screams: Are you fugging kidding me? My outside voice asks: Really, why do you think that? Their answers are valid. They simply do not understand the value of networking.
What is networking?
Connecting with another individual through the exchange of basic information with the intention to find a mutually beneficial opportunity
How do you network exactly?
It starts with your attitude. Successful people absolutely get that you must first give before you receive. Always be:
- The first to smile.
- The first to extend a handshake.
- The first to start the conversation with a question about the other person.
- The first to dismiss a negative reception. It happens… but it’s their problem, not yours.
What’s the networking formula?
It’s definitely more of a formula than a natural born ability. It is not rocket science. It does need practice. Here’s the magic:
- Who are you?
- What are your prepared to share?
- What do you need?
The who are you question: answer it in 30 seconds. This means you will need a paper and pen, a few scribbled sentences and finally a rehearsed 30 second answer preferably vetted by a close friend.
What are you prepared to share question: This is hardly ever money. This could be introductions to people in your network within a specific industry. Excess of some product or service you can share, information sharing, or an hour of your time to bounce a few ideas around.
What do you need: Be specific. Consider you may be explaining a need to a room full of people who have no idea what your industry is about. Give them examples of job titles of people you’re looking to connect with, examples of companies, or buzz words. And regardless of whether you have an immediate need to fill for yourself, chances are you almost always know someone who needs to know someone you just met. Not so much? … Well, I’m willing to bet money that this person that is likely not an ideal fit for you on the surface, they probably know three people who all need to know you.
Networking works when there is a win win approach at the center of it all. It amazes me how so many people feel it’s ok to tap and pillage their network several times over. It’s definitely not ok. Nor will it get you near as far as a win win approach will.
The people in my network all share the same attitude, and when I introduce people to my network, I make a point of reinforcing the shared attitude. I go so far as to say, “I’m happy to introduce you to <PERSON> but please give some thought in advance as to what you can do for them.” It has to be balanced and mutually beneficial. Always.
I love connecting with likeminded people. If you feel so inclined, reach out and let me know who you are, what you’re prepared to share and what you need then let’s see where it goes.
To fully appreciate the value and opportunity networking affords, check out @MarkWSchaefer”s post on his learnings from Carnegie and how it they can make you a start at work!
Twitter
LinkedIn
SlideShare
Facebook
