THE RIGHT WAY
Question: There are so many networking groups that I know of, but I choose not to be active in any of them for many reasons. The key one of them all is it gives me the impression that it’s only a place for exchanging cards among a bunch of “hungry people” waiting to ask for each other’s contacts or opportunities. Would likely do the same if I was there too. Worse still, I won’t even remember any of them with the many business cards collected when I get home!
However, I’m rethinking whether I should after all give it a good try. Should I? And if so, how do I make the best use of my time and efforts there? - SCEPtICAL
Answer: Let’s face this fact. If networking is not a good strategy, many groups would have closed down by now. In reality, more and more are emerging! They are progressing well. There must be very good reasons for this. I’m in a few myself too. The crux of the matter is not about whether they are good or not or how good they are, but how to use them smartly.
Bottom Line: In my view, a very effective way is to have a “give and take” instead of a “take” mindset when you join or go for one. With this, you won’t make meeting people a one-sided affair where you take but not give. Instead, it becomes a two-sided affair.
Without any expectation of how you can gain more than others, there will then be very good energy and spirit in the air! There’s a saying “to give is to get” and for certain there’s going to be a lot of benefits for everyone. When you help someone, it results in someone trusting you; more so, when they know that you have no expectation for them to return this favour. Believe me, the law of life will rule in your favour one day soon. Just leave it as that. So go there to give and help anyone who needs it.
This can be done in so many ways. Even in simple things like giving someone an email address, a website name or a book that is helpful to someone. It doesn’t have to be a big favour like giving business to someone. The little things in life count! You will be blessed for doing this for them.
Powerful Questions:
• What’s your intention when you go to a networking event?
• What mindset do you want to adopt from now on?
• Is there something you want to give freely to others?
• What is your plan for networking from now on?