True networking isn’t an event. It’s a call, a coffee, a drink.
Networking is building a relationship with the other person. It’s getting them to trust you and you to trust them.
I get frustrated when I hear people, especially entrepreneurs, say that they don’t get anything out of networking events.
If this is you, you’re doing it wrong!
That’s typically because the relationship begins and ends in that 20 minute (or less) conversation. Both parties shared what their profession, stated some pleasantries then went off to the next person.
Grabbing a card is easy.
Attending an event is easy.
Building a relationship is hard.
The purpose of a networking event is to meet people. The purpose of networking is grow your influence, build trust, and get the other to trust you enough to (1) remember you and (2) refer people to you.
What have your results been?
Do you find networking events not worth the time you put into them?
Then, it’s time for a change. I am here to help.
You never know who someone knows. You don’t know if they are two degrees of separation away from Bill Gates or Martha Stewart.
How many business cards are in your pocket, wallet or desk? When’s the last time you reached out to them and found out what was going on in their life? If the answer is never, that’s who you need to call tomorrow.
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