Oh No - Do I Have to Network with *Another* Financial Advisor??!!

 

If I had a nickel for every time I heard that complaint at a networking event or in the course of matching up professionals to network over lunch or coffee (ßI got the plug in early!)…well, let’s just say my kids could get some great gifts this year for Chanukah!

The truth is, an established FA (or insurance agent, or anyone else in a related financial field) has a book full of all kinds of professionals and people who entrust their savings to them and will typically seek out advice from them in conjunction with hiring other professionals.  So actually you DO want to network with them, because they know and work with a wide variety people at all different stages of life and career.  So the next time you meet an FA or insurance agent at a networking event – don’t roll your eyes!  Smile, extend a hand, and see what networking opportunities may develop!

But all of this begs the question – if someone is a good networker, does it really matter what their profession is?  To be honest, I don’t think it does, especially if you are walking into a networking situation thinking about making connections, not about making sales.  The mark of a great networker is one who is a great connector and, for me , it’s those connections and potential for building a relationship that is valuable – not the hope that maybe you’ll get a one-time quick sale from the person you’re meeting.

Moral of the story – be open to networking with all sort of professionals – not just those that are an obvious networking partner for you.  Great connectors come in all shape, sizes, career levels and professions – even if they are FAs!

Let me know if you’ve found a great networking partner in a profession that you didn’t expect to find one!

Sara Rosenberg

Connector-in-Chief

The Power Lunch Project

http://www.ThePowerLunchProject.com