That’s right! Business networking is not all about you or your business – at least not in the “networking event” stage of things. Honestly, most people you meet at a networking event don’t even care very much about what you do! (Really, they don’t!)
In fact, most people at a networking event care about what YOU can do for THEM. So why not use other professionals’ bad networking mindset to your advantage, by becoming a problem solver (and essentially, being a good networker!). Ask not what your potential networking partners can do for you – ask what you can do for them!
Here’s how:
• Ask the Right Questions – After the pleasantries of “What do you do?”, be sure to ask “Who can I put you in contact with?” and “How can I help you?”, then…..
• Listen – You can’t help anyone unless you truly listen to what their answers are to the above questions.
• Follow Up – After the event, make sure you do what you say you were going to do! If you promised to introduce someone to one of your associates, or make a phone call to schedule a lunch meeting – do so!
• Be Authentic – Don’t just connect, engage! Engagement = Nurturing = Great Networking Relationship! (For more about authentic networking, check out http://smartketingreflections.blogspot.com/search?q=atp)
How does helping others help you? Simple! You become an important resource and go-to person, which in turn builds up those business relationships that create the foundation for success – both yours and those you help!
*Shameless Plug for The Power Lunch Project Ahead!*
The Power Lunch Project can help set you up with networkers that understand and appreciate the correct mindset of business networking and are willing to assist others, as much as themselves! Check us out at http://www.ThePowerLunchProject.com for more information about how to participate!
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