Here’s my favorite quotes on the subject of networking:
“Your network is your net worth.” --- Sunil Ranka
“Instead of better glasses, your network gives you better eyes.” --- Ronald Burt
“My Golden Rule of Networking is simple: don’t keep score.” --- Harvey MacKay
Networking is the unwritten rule for success in business. Effective networking is not a result of luck; effective networking requires hard work and persistence. People get tripped up because they don’t want to be persistent or consistent; they want immediate results. It does NOT work that way in networking or in business. You must put in the time, help people, and build your personal brand --- then, you will see your network grow.
When networking, I always ask myself: how can I help this person? How can I make a connection for them? I know this: when I help enough people, I receive the help I’m seeking.
How do you network? I’ve spent over 16 years building my professional network. I joined groups at the local Chamber of Commerce, enrolled in classes, and attended seminars across the country. I constantly surround myself with people who are better than me. I am full of questions and unafraid to ask people how they reached success, how they network, and what groups I should join. People want to help you, but they can’t read your mind.
Networking requires an investment. It’s an investment of time, made over the long-haul. You must invest financially, as well. You’ve heard it said, it takes money to make money. If you want to be around successful people, you must attend the meetings, conventions, and seminars that they attend. Don’t you dare make the excuse that you can’t afford it; instead, ask yourself, how do I make this happen?
Why are you waiting? Join the group, talk to the parents at school, make new friends everywhere. Be intentional and ask those you admire for advice, help, and support.
Hell, I’d love to include you in my network! Send me an email here on the site. Let’s talk about how we can help each other.
Cheers to building each other UP!
