Business Networking = Relationship + Business

Yes, "Business Networking = Relationship + Business"  and not "Business Networking = Business"

 My business partner and I got invited to one of the biggest business related event in Detroit a couple fo months ago. Even though the interest of networking and expanding your business contacts was embedded in the event plan, the actual call was for a get together and to kick start the New Year celebration. The event was actually interesting with very good food and drinks.

Some thing interesting I noticed that night about quite a few people. They were all with what I call "Palms Down" Plan. Meaning their palms were not up trying to give but their palms were facing down in the sense of what they can take/get. I do agree a social event like this can definitely help you in your business but there is more to it. It is called "Building Relationship". There were some people I came across as well as noticed in the room. They were as though on fire or in a hurry to catch a plane. I could actually write a software algorithm on the behavioral pattern of these people (I know I am being a nerd )

#Initialize:
Hello I am So&So;
Peek at the name tag;

Wait For Reply;

If (Reply Received)
Then  {
  What does your Company do?
}
Else if (No Repy)
{
Ignore waiting;
What does your Company do?
}

If (any prospect of getting Business/ Making Money)
Then {
  Exchange cards;
  More canvassing;  
  Move on to the next person;
}
Else {
Move on to the next person right away;
}

Even worse, some time I have noticed people are scanning constantly even while being with a person still and then running to another to hand out their business cards.  Actually reminds me of a Speed Dating scene....Gong !! Next please !

Business people, my sincere request, running a business is not always about money alone it is also about relationship. Technically that is why it is called networking. From my DotSign  experience and philosophy, the true success of your company is reflected by your influence on your clients success and the relationship you have with your customer.

Bottom line, you cannot give an effective deliverable if you don't truly care and understand your client, business partner whoever it may be in your business realm.

Wishing You Success
Henry Joshua