The A-B-Cs of Networking

In the workplace - and when dealing with workplace matters - networking is a powerful tool. And the same is true in personal and social situations, where friends and family can provide you with a great support system, both as you make decisions about change in your life and as you carry them out. Most of us already have a network, but many of us don't know it, so we don't use it. All of us can have a network, but most of us don't do it, so we can't use it. My recommendation? Build a network of people who can assist you in reaching your goals ? and USE IT!

On a plain piece of paper, jot down the letters "A", "B" and "C" with "A" at the top of the sheet, "B" about one-third of the way down the page, and "C at the two-thirds point. Then write some notes to yourself as you read. The most powerful tool to use with a network is to "A" -- ASK for help. (Write this down.) In fact, that's what a network is for, and everyone knows it. Even those who network to develop business or to get a promotion know that even these selfish motives are, in their way, requests for help. Conversely, there's a willingness to help...it's a two-way street.

As wise men have said so many times, "Knowledge is power." But, since none of us can have all the knowledge, no one of us can have all the power. However, the more we ask, the more we learn. The more we know, the more powerful we can be.

Of course, knowledge itself isn't power (that's only POTENTIAL power). How we use the knowledge makes the power KINETIC - puts it out there where it can command respect, earn us a raise or promotion, get us a job or some other recognition we really want.

Now for the "B" item. Often, change affects a whole group of people. In that situation, using your network means enlisting others who are being affected and sharing information. "B" is for Brainstorm ? discuss ideas, opinions, strategies and tactical approaches among yourselves for the benefit of each and all of you. Perhaps you can use the space on your sheet to jot down some brainstorm ideas about who should be in your network, how to reach them, and so forth.

Finally, "C" - COMMUNICATE. TALK ABOUT YOUR IDEAS. There's no better way of honing them to razor-edged sharpness in your own mind. And talking about Idea number one may spark Idea number 2 - which may come from someone else - and that idea may be even better. Also, when you share, others will share as well, and you'll all feel supportive and supported.

Is this risky? It may feel that way, but that's not really accurate. Even your most cherished and secret idea isn't brand new. Most others don't want it or care about it, anyway...but they're often willing to help you realize it, so take the risk.

Look at your paper. Did you write down each of these key ideas? Now flesh out your outline, then get moving. Start your networking today. It's as easy as "A," "B," "C!"

Copyright 2002, 2005 Optimum Performance Associates/Paul McNeese.

Paul McNeese is CEO of Optimum Performance Associates, a consulting firm specializing in transitional and transformational change for individuals and institutions through publication. His publishing company, OPA Publishing, is an advocacy for self-publishing authors of informational, instructional, inspirational and insightful nonfiction.

Email: pmcneese@opapublishing.com
Websites: http://www.opapublishing.com and http://www.opapresents.com

---

Network Marketing

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

Five Best Ways To Build A Network

I have been working from home on the internet for... Read More

Who Are You and What The Heck Do You Do?

A few years ago, I was attending a family function... Read More

How to Avoid Falling Asleep Behind the Conversational Wheel

Think about the last time you feel asleep behind the... Read More

Networking for Wallflowers: How to Profit from Getting into the Crowd

The two most common complaints about networking are: 1) I... Read More

Giving Referrals to Get Referrals

One of the best ways to get a referral is... Read More

Joining Industry Specific Organizations Has Many Benefits

Recently, while providing an up-and-coming Virtual Assistant (VA) and small... Read More

Social Network Software

My neighbor ? a lovely man I've known, and have... Read More

10 Terrific Tips to Talk Your Way to the Top

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

The Anatomy of a Brain Cramp; The Retainer and the Lavalava - Communication

In life, you have to successfully work with people to... Read More

Examination of Discovery - Finding the Right Networking Group

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

The 4 Actions of Awesome Hospitality

These Actions of Awesome Hospitality? will help you manifest the... Read More

Networking

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

Your Front End

While surfing for traffic or browsing your safelist emails, you... Read More

How NOT to Waste Your Time Networking

Ever wonder if networking, referral groups, and conferences are a... Read More

Write It Down!

Why would you want to write information on paper when... Read More

Follow-Up with Your Contacts

What happens when you meet a potential client at an... Read More

How to Collect Business Cards

Why the business card grab is not why you are... Read More

Are You Sitting With The Right Company?

When I walked into Dallas's famous Y.O. Ranch Steakhouse, all... 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

Powerful Networking: Focus on Building Connections, Not Closing Sales

You can find numerous references in the business literature about... Read More

5 Ways to Wow People Who Wear Nametags

People wear nametags more often than you think. The majority... Read More

Networking Group Loyalty Requirements

How can you find out the group loyalty requirements before... Read More

Are You in the Relationship Business?

Are you in the relationship business? Of course you are.... Read More

Alcohol & Events

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

How to Gain Maximum Value from Your Networking Time

One of the best ways to get business is through... Read More

Effective Business Networking: 5 Tips For Mastering The Art of Networking

The heart of any business is the connection it has... Read More

10 Top Tips for Successful Networking

1. Recognise the importance of networkingAsk any successful business person... Read More

Come Home Rich - How to Get the Most out of Your Next Conference

Success in your career depends upon how well you manage... Read More

Five Stumbling Blocks To Successful Networking And How To Overcome Them

The ability to connect with people is essential to success... Read More

Practice Makes Pefect

What is the problem when people try to describe what... Read More

How to Organize a Successful Bad Sweater Party

"Hey Scott, would you like to go to a Bad... Read More