NETWORKING

A wise person knows everything, a clever one, everybody.

            Networking is essential to build new business relationships and generate new opportunities.

            Today it’s often not what you know but who you know that counts the most.

            Try to connect to people you feel have some value to you. When you do this you are networking.

Five of the best tips for networking

* What interests you?

            Here are three main groups.  

            The professional and business type group – professional societies, clubs and unions.

            The hobby, sporting, educational and religious types.

            The electronic Internet type can connect groups of people worldwide.

            Join a group, or groups, that appeal to you to enhance your life with friends and new work contacts.

* How to get known

            Go out of your way to help others. Generosity is an attractive quality and it is something people will remember about you.  

            Get known by making a contribution. Join in activities and help organise events. Take office. Contribute to the group and gain respect.

            At social events make an effort to move around and talk to many people.  Show you are interested in others and ask open-ended questions. “How is your family doing?” “Where did you grow up?” “How can I help?”

            Improve your listening skills. Don’t talk too much. Make an effort to become a good listener.

* Follow up fast

            If you say you will do something to help someone, do it as soon as possible.

            Respond to any referrals you are given as soon as you can and keep in touch. Let them know how the new connections are going.

* Keep  records

            Many politicians owe their career success to accurate records.

            Collect and file business cards or use an electronic filing system.

            You must be able to make contact quickly if and when required.

            Keeping a diary can be a valuable tool and can bring you rewards when you need names, dates and specific details.

            Jot down brief notes about people so you can quickly establish a rapport with them next time you meet. “Keen on sport.” Has a family of three boys.” “Born in England.””Attended Harvard”

* Meet regularly

            Groups should meet on a regular basis to reinforce contacts and to refresh relationships.

            Business networking is successful when groups of like-minded business people recognise, create and act upon opportunities and go out of their way to help each other.  

            Who you know is more important than what you know so fortify your life with friends and contacts.

–Geoffrey Moss (mossassociates.co.nz)

“Get good results, use all the brains you have and all the brains you can borrow.”

Source: “Secrets for New Managers” first published by Moss Associates Ltd., New Zealand and Cengage Learning Asia, Singapore. Also available as an e-book from Amazon.com and from the VitalSource Bookshelf.