The 10 things Effective Networkers know-
While compiling info for my book, I came across this little gem I wrote last year. I would be interested in your thoughts on what should be added or deleted. Thanks in advance.
1. They show up ready to network. It doesnt really matter if you are
networking online or face to face, you have to show up.
2. They realize the importance of being interested over being interesting.
Networking isnt about whats in it for me, it about what can i do for you.
3. They ask good questions. The reality is you dont really get to know about
people until you start asking them questions about them.
4. They have excellent listening skills. Listening is vital to any
conversation, but in networking if you arent listening to the person to whom you are speaking, you will not be able to help them.
5. They are interested in helping others. Without a healthy interest in the
well being of others, networking will be a total waste of your time.
6. They know that in order to receive, they have to give. Theres an old maxim
in networking, "givers get". Its fascinating to see how both your network and
the universe go out of the way to make sure that those who give also get to
receive.
7. They have an excellent memory (or at the very least a solid database). If
you're an active networker, you will meet lots of people. You need to keep track of who needs what and who can address those needs.
8. They make connections. They take the time to properly introduce the folks
they know to the people they need to meet.
9. They stay visible to their network. Whether its following up with a person
they just met or maintaing a regular level of communication with those they
already know, they make sure their network hears from them.
10. They do what they said they would do. Good networkers know their
reputation is very valuable so they treat it as such. They show up when they
say they will and make the calls at the right time too.
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Just updated # 2 Cuz I think I was doing it wrong back in the day:
2. They realize the importance of being interested over being interesting. Networking isn't only about whats in it for me, it about what can I do for you and what we can do together.
Great top 10! The interesting thing is that most of these directly impacts how much trust you build within your network. Good listening builds trust when you are truly interested in the other person. Visability means you aren't just looking for a quick sale, rather you are interested in building a solid network for the long haul. Man, you've got me fired up with this list!
Those are 10 great axioms.
Another thing that I've found to be helpful is to get a list of attendees prior to event. Look at their profiles and busineeses to see who you want to meet. Then meet them.
I've also found that eating before an event is key. It's hard to network when your more interested in eating. Juggleing plates and cups while trying to write something down is at best trying and at worst comical.
The word networking says it all. It is working. Treat it as such.
Happiness is a choice. Choose well.