THE ART OF NETWORKING
Say the word “Networking” in any conversation and
you’ll receive a variety of responses. Karin Metz.
Business people nod their heads in agreement, knowing the value thereof. Some know it as Referral Networking or Relationship Marketing. Don’t be misled into thinking that Network Marketing or Multi- level Marketing are the same thing, they have nothing to do with actual business networking. I was oen told while studying “it’s not what you know, but who you know that is critical”. While expertise and sincerity are essential, humans like doing business with people they like and know.
The challenge was that nobody ever told me HOW to get to know all the people I was supposed to know to help make things happen. A survey of more than 2,200 people on Business Network International revealed that 87% had never had a college course that even mentioned networking. Yet in another survey of more than 3,800 business people, 73% said that they generated most of their business through networking.
Maybe you are a born connector?
Maybe you would like to become better at networking? Or maybe just the idea sends shivers down your spine? Effective networking is an art. But it is an art that can be developed once you have learned the necessary skills, through reading, training and coaching anybody can become an expert networker.
HOW WOULD YOUR LIFE CHANGE, IF YOU COULD MEET ANYONE IN THE WORLD YOU LIKE?
Did you know that 70% of new business players have emerged through the power of networking? Such businesses only get established after the FIFTH meeting or encounter. In other words, this process requires focus, effort, time – and most importantly – a network. It has been proven that every individual is acquainted with at least 200 other people and with the ‘Six Degrees of Separation’ concept (the idea that all people are six, or fewer, social connections away from each other). Your contacts and their networks can open up brand new horizons for you. You have a 63% higher chance of succeeding at a meeting if you have a favourable reference from someone in your network.
HOW CAN YOU MEET NEW PEOPLE, AND DO BUSINESS WITH THEM?
A survey of 5,000 entrepreneurs conducted by Kauffman FasTrac discovered that networking is viewed as the top skill required for entrepreneurial success. Business networking ultimately helps you build connections with important people in your industry, attract and engage new talent and create a community of likeminded people. Ultimately, a great network just makes things a lot easier as an entrepreneur. A great network is a gateway to opportunity. I will walk you through the various aspects of developing the art of business networking in a regular column in this magazine.
The essential need-to-know information starts with:
- Myths, misconceptions, and misunderstandings about networking
- Look the part and make sure your body language supports your message
- What to say when you meet a new person – asking the right questions to get the right answers
- What NOT to say and do at a networking event
- How men and women network differently
- Ensuring you are always the FIRST person your clients think of
- Choosing the right networking platform for your needs
- 4 networking styles – with which one do you identify with most
- What to do with all the business cards you’re constantly collecting
- The importance of having a ‘Giver’s Gain’ attitude
- How to effectively follow-up using the 24-7-30 formula
- Recommended websites for self-development of networking skills
The longer you are in business the more you’ll understand the importance of a strong and credible network. Let 2020 be YOUR year of networking effectively, connecting people to people and enjoy the abundant blessings that follow a “Giver’s Gain” attitude and lifestyle. Have fun networking until next time!