How to network...using social media or not!

How to network...using social media or not!

In the next few blog posts I will do my best to de-mystify the process of networking, define networking, define what it is not, discuss the role of social media and give some tried and true tips and hints at working a room like a professional. 

Let's get started...

So what is networking?

Networking is all about relationship development, creating bonds between you and someone else that will lead to success and improvement for both of you down the road.

Networking is simply an information exchange between you and another person. It involves establishing relationships with people who can help you advance your career in many ways.

Business networking is leveraging your business and personal connections to bring you a regular supply of new business. The concept sounds simple, doesn't it? Don't let that fool you, though. Because it involves relationship building, it can be a deceptively complex process.

Networking is an exchange of information, contacts, referrals and goodwill. Networking leads to new relationships, new opportunities and greater accomplishments.

At its essence networking is about learning. It is about finding a way for you and another person to be mutually beneficial to each other. Because at the end of the day (whether it be a business or a personal day) the only people that what to network with, hang out with you and learn from you are those that you can help become better humans.

Remember, networking happens all of the time. It can be at the lunch table, in line at the store, at a business after hours, at the gym or during your kids basketball game. 

What networking is not?

It is not a transaction. It is not making a sale. It is not about what you can get from someone.

Networking is not a transactional process. 

“It’s the difference between prostitution and a romantic relationship,” as my friend Ursula likes to say. (Follow her at http://www.saquiresearch.com/blog/). In other words if we do it in terms of selling it’s a one night stand.

The goal of good networking is to find and develop relationships with people that you can help and can help you.

So that's it?

Yup, that really is the beginning. Networking is a way to make the world a better place. You can do it everywhere and at anytime. Do not think that it is a sales process or a way to "get something" from someone. The most successful and respected networkers are those that find ways to help colleagues succeed and improve. They help others find connections and a way to improve their process.

So get out there and see if you can identify some times during your day that you could turn into networking opportunities. Begin to take stock of your connections and think of them in terms of how you can help them.

Good luck!