"I used to go to a lot of networking events. I just found they didn't create much opportunity."
- Unknown (overheard at a recent event)
NETWORKING is a business "buzz word" much like leadership, diversity and multi-tasking. It sounds great, but has no clear definitions and lacks any real "achievable goal." It is a hole of QUICKSAND, patiently waiting to suck in and unsuspecting sucker that does not know what they are getting into.
In order for us to CLARIFY the value of networking, we must clarify the value of MEANINGFUL relationships. In business, those are relationships yielding financial, social or political advancement. If they do not HELP you reach your sales goals, meet someone that helps you meet your sales goals or get you strategically placed into groups that help you meet the people, that help you meet your sales goals (whew!), meeting them is a BIG FAT WASTE OF TIME.
If you want to make new FRIENDS, that is fine. You had better network with people that share similar VALUES, etc. Rather than a "chamber mixer" (vomit), join a social or professional group. If you want to GROW your business, you better read the above paragraph again (and again and again until it is clear).
2 DEGREE SUCCESS STEP:
Should you QUIT networking? YES. Should you quit MEETING new people? NO WAY! However, if you do not do "networking," how will you meet people?
Most "networking" events are the lowest level and lowest quality sales people in any organization. They are NOT interested in helping you, referring you, collaborating with you; rather, they are ONLY interested in selling you their (blank) and getting to your clients. Damn, that sounds like a GREAT RELATIONSHIP, eh?
Instead of seeking to find a diamond amongst the coals, why not join a group that is both social and professional? Seek groups that are social for professionals. Seek groups that drive people of varying backgrounds together (like a recreational sports league). Possibly be BRAZEN and start a group of your own (based on solving the problems of professionals) that aggregates the people you WANT to do business with in a manner that provides them a VALUE to know you, as opposed to just "knowing you."
Need help figuring out how to do this? Email me. I have not figured out many things in life, but this one… well, I am better than most.
Cheers,
Zach
*To enjoy past editions of the Morning Motivator go to – http://grow-learn-lead.blogspot.com
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2 comments:
Hmmmm, like ASL?? Love it! Very smart.
Zach, I was just talking this morning to my mentor about this! There are so many ways to network, I always tell people I don't network, I go score brownie points...its served me well in all my career paths. Salute!
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