Networking Know How

Networking, even to a seasoned professional, can seem intimidating or scary at times. The reason for this is due to the fact, that networking can be positive or negative! We don't often think of "negative" networking. Not knowing what constitutes the difference between the two makes it easy to network in a negative manner.

I am sure that you will agree that the term "networking" is one of the most over-used and misunderstood words in our vocabulary. To give you an idea of how the term came to be misunderstood, lets first look at the dictionary definition. To paraphrase the dictionary, networking is defined as "the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions." What we don't see included in the definition is the purpose of networking. We need to view networking in a much broader concept than the dictionary definition. If we view networking as the process of developing and maintaining quality relationships that are mutually beneficial, it won't take long to realize that networking is an ongoing process. The continual building of relationships that can last a lifetime is what makes networking an ongoing process. When we lose touch with someone, then call on them when we are in need, we have just created a negative networking situation.

Positive networking needs to become a way of life. As the old saying goes "It's not what you know but who you know." This is true more than ever in today's competitive world. Networking is not something that comes easily to many people. You may be basically a shy person, possibly feel you don't have the resources, or as most of us are today, just plain busy. You may feel you just don't have the time to network. The fact is that every time you meet someone new, you are given the opportunity to network, learn new things and enrich your life. Because we have broadened our definition of networking to include its purpose, we really don't have time not to network.

Building relationships that will help you reach your potential is easier than you may think. Welcome new opportunities to meet new people. Don't save your networking for specific situations or places. Networking can be done any place, any time. Learn about the other person you are networking with and how you can help them. Help others connect to the people you know can help them, keep your promises and stay in touch. These are all important aspects that are often overlooked when developing network relationships that are mutually beneficial.

Networking takes time and will be ever-evolving. You will always have opportunities to meet new people to add to your list of contacts. Once you have established a relationship, identify the people who can help you, stay connected, and keep your network growing. Identify the organizations and activities where people you want to know gather, get involved and become known.

To give an example of how this works, identify a group that you would like to join. Attend two meetings before joining. While at the meetings introduce yourself to two people and exchange business cards. Arrange two follow-up meetings for coffee or lunch. Now you will know if you truly want to be part of this group and you will have expanded your network by two.

Networking does not have to be difficult, in fact it can be fun. Keep in mind that it is something you will need to constantly work at and before you know it, you will have a strong network behind you to back your efforts

About The Author

Karen is a graduate of of Cleveland State University and is a freelance writer. Visit her website at http://www.womenatthesummit.com - A site of general interest to women. Topics include: Pregnancy, Children, Parenting, Health and wellness, Diet and Fitness, Relationships, Money, Travel and more.

(c)2004 Karen Zastudil

webmaster@womenatthesummit.com

---

Five Steps for Expanding Your Customer Base with Guerilla Networking

As a single company, it is impossible to provide your... Read More

How Speakers, Exhibitors, Consultants, and Meeting Planners Partner-Generate More Money and Value

? "Make Every Moment Count" is the title of a... Read More

Networking: Breaking into the Buzz

Breaking into conversational groups is one of the things people... Read More

Did You Market Yourself Today?

"If you build a better mouse trap - the world... Read More

Where to Find a Cash Windfall of $10,000 - $1,000,000 - You Never Knew You Had

There is a rather famous true story called "Acres of... Read More

Two-Step Your Communication

Ever use someone else to get your message out?For example,... Read More

Network Marketing

Network marketing is the ordinary person's best opportunity to make... Read More

Where Does That Word Come From?

"Instead of a handshake, I gave Toby a high-five to... Read More

Alcohol & Events

Many people associate alcohol with relaxation and fun, so it... Read More

Strategic Networking: Take the Shortest Path to Success

Do you use Ryze or LinkedIn to promote your web... Read More

How to Keep from Sounding LIKE Totally Stupid

June is reality check month. Lots of the resolutions have... Read More

It Pays to be Friendly

Most small business people do not take advantage of human... Read More

Discover Your Own Source Of Business Leads

Generating new business leads is critical in your success, no... Read More

How to be Known

Why business relationships are formed with certain people?If you go... Read More

Networking

Put join a networking group on your to do list... Read More

Lesson 15 - Meeting the Prince with More Reputation than Power

The StoryBusiness has a habit of testing us as individuals... Read More

Networking

Networking: Is it who you know or what you know... Read More

How to Generate More Business by Telling People What You Do

What do you tell people when asked what you do?... Read More

Hows Your Net Working?

In recent weeks, I've had the opportunity to pass along... Read More

Unforgettable First Impressions Part 1: Discover the CPI

People like others whom they are like. So if you... Read More

Unforgettable First Impressions Part 3: Time is (Not) On Your Side

You only have three seconds?Connect in under a minute?People decide... Read More

How To Make Your Next Networking Event A Success

There are people who are natural born networkers - those... Read More

10 Terrific Tips to Talk Your Way to the Top

What is "the top" anyway? According to society, "top" has... Read More

Examination of Discovery - Finding the Right Networking Group

Why would I pick this group over another group?How many... Read More

Network Marketing Secret: On Becoming the ?GoTo? Guy

For years we've been taught to identify ourselves as reps... Read More

Should You Offer Commissions For Customer Referrals?

As a small business owner you may find yourself in... Read More

Networking Know How

Networking, even to a seasoned professional, can seem intimidating or... Read More

Work that Room, Baby!

Networking, schmoozing, making connections. Call it what you want, it's... Read More

Networking: Strangers, Friendship, and Business Growth

You already know that uncomfortable feeling, that knot in your... Read More

Networking Skills: Arguing in Context

If you're fond of a good debate, you know how... Read More

Online Business Networking: How Personal is Too Personal?

Online networking has opened up some fantastic business opportunities for... Read More

34 Power Affirmations for Networking with the Affluent

Here are 34 affirmations I have created after studying the... Read More

Build Your Business through Strategic Networking

Networking ? it's the latest business trend. Or is it?Actually,... Read More