The operative word in this week’s business networking tip is the word “go.” That is you must make the effort to go to events where you have the opportunity to mix and mingle with new people. Seeing other people and being seen by people is important part of business networking – which I define as the art of building and sustaining mutually-beneficial relationships before you need them.
Like exercise, networking takes commitment and effort. You must be able and willing to put aside the many excuses and reasons why you don’t want to do it or can’t go to the networking event today. (please share your best excuses for why you can’t/won’t show up to networking events at our Facebook Page – www.NetworkingAhead.com/Facebook)
Once you overcome those negative mental messages, you will rise to the occasion and be glad you did show up!
What kind of networking events should you be thinking about attending?
- Formal networking meetings, workshops and seminars, awards luncheons hosted by your chamber of commerce, social gatherings, parties, board meetings, professional association meetings, conferences, conventions, trips to the gym, regular civic club meetings, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts meetings (don’t just drop the kids off, stay and get to know the other adult leaders). The list is seemingly endless!
You see, any event can be networking event, so long as you have the right mindset and are willing and prepared to: 1) introduce yourself, 2) have conversations and get to know other people and 3) exchange business cards, so that you can follow-up afterward.
Your networking GOAL for this week:
Select one event that you will attend this week for the purposes of networking with others. Put it on your calendar. Put it in your heart and head that you WILL show up, come snow, sleet, rain, wind, or the inevitable onset of laziness and excuses. Remind yourself that “80% of winning is just showing up.” You intend to win. You WILL show up. You are building your business network so that it will support you now and in the future.
