Networking Skills

I'd be interested in learning more about Networking skills. Does anyone have any advice on the subject or know of any articles I could read?

Originally Posted by BossMan Does anyone have any advice on the subject or know of any articles I could read?

One of my favorite "tips" comes from the book "Power Networking".

The tip is "Give up the lone ranger mentality". A mentality that might have sound footing in the phrase, "If you want a job done right, do it yourself."

When I was a kid I often hear the phrase, "No man is an island." Too bad it took me so long to figure that one out.

When I was a kid networking came naturally unnatural for me - I met other kids on the playground, in trees [precomputer days], at dances and parties, and at sport's events. Sometimes I networked shyly and other times half boldly. Motivation was adventure, friendship, girls, belonging, girls, something to do, and more girls.

I was full of fear. Fear is a survival instinct - fear of people, places, situations so it's a good thing - so I had to learn how to network over fear. That could be daunting to the point of withdrawl.

I believe most people grow up with some of that kid networking awkwardness still with them - they put on fronts and styles and attitudes but inside it's still naturally unnatural for most people. And then there is fear.

Knowing that is important. Admitting that about yourself is important. Knowing that most other people feel the same way is important. This knowledge opens the door for further inside information about the nature and potential of networking.

Originally Posted by MitchM Knowing that is important. Admitting that about yourself is important. Knowing that most other people feel the same way is important. This knowledge opens the door for further inside information about the nature and potential of networking.

Excellent insight. Thanks Mitch.

How about a "How-to-Network" article or tutorial. Does anyone know/have something like that?

Originally Posted by Calvin How about a "How-to-Network" article or tutorial. Does anyone know/have something like that?

I suspect, Calvin that's it like the old joke answer to someone asking directions: "you can't get there from here."

Mitch, in his post, provided the map if one looks deep enough. Start at the word, "natural".

I don't know why, but we members of the selling community have attempted to institutionalize things too much. What once was companionship and friendship and man's human nature effecting an inherent willingness and desire to help others, we now seek in books that tell us to network.

Originally Posted by Gary Boye What once was companionship and friendship and man's human nature effecting an inherent willingness and desire to help others, we now seek in books that tell us to network.

I have to admit that I need all the help I can get.

Hi,

There's a guy in Atlanta (although he works nationally from what I can tell) named Brian Hilliard. The company is Agito Consulting. He spoke about networking at one of our local Chamber meetings, and he seemed pretty sharp.

If you sign up for his newsletter, you can take advantage of his "open mic" offer where you can call him to discuss an issue for ~20 minutes.
Open Mic: http://agitoconsulting.com/default.aspx?PID=1705

There are also some free resources on his site, including some info about what he calls Networking like a Pro: http://agito.solarvelocity.com/Page204.aspx

Hope that helps.

Kathleen

Thanks for the info info Kathleen. Very helpful.

I think the key to networking is investing time getting to know the other person. One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is to dominate the conversation during an event. Instead of dominating the conversation and trying to sell someone on your product/service, show interest in the other person. Look for ways you can help them, and most importantly, find ways to keep in touch with them. When you help other people get what they want, they'll be more willing to help you.

It's been said already - be yourself, be natural, and relax.

Cheers!
Kelley