Why do you Network?

Why do you Network?

Do you set Networking Goals - yes this is a huge part of growing!

Do you have to have a clear direction, with a specific goal in mind, for your networking?  

Ask yourself - Why are you networking

Is it to introduce your new business?

Or to obtain support and gain favor from others in business?

Is it to acquire knowledge in order to launch your business?

Is it to help other business as well as your own?

Do you view it as a social event?

There are many different reasons individuals network.

Know your why and what your goal is when you set out to network. Make the first move to meet others, do not wait to be approached. Ask questions, and really get to know others as a person - not have the just how can they help me attitude. I surely hope that isn't you!! If it is then you really need to STOP because I can tell you now that is the reason you are NOT GROWING. You have the GIVE ME or I need a SALE attitude and mindset when you walk into a networking group or talk with someone!  This is the biggest thing people do and use when they go networking. And, they end up quitting because they never make it.

It should be the reverse and ask yourself - GIVING MINDSET (Read the Go-Givers series of books by Bob Burg and John David Mann) 

a) How can I help them

b) Who can I introduce them too

c) Who do I know that could use their product or services, etc.

It is important to learn about other people's goals and learn about their why in their business and in life. When we learn more about others, we can help them with referrals, invite them to other networking events, be a connector to others that have same interest as them, thus resulting in building relationships and in business that is huge.  

Remember, It is not about you, but it is about others and how you can serve and help other achieve their goals as well.  

As Zig Ziglar says: "You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want" 

Networking is not two people exchanging business cards, shaking hands or making a toast together. 

It is about forming, building and maintaining relationships, which is why you must approach it with caution and care.

I look at this platform and see that so many:

1- Do not even acknowledge a request - with anything at all (not even thanks for the message)

2- Tell you up front they have NO INTEREST in you as a business person or your product/service (they will never make it) they make it all about themselves

I've invited so many on here to do a zoom and network, build relationships to know what they do, how can I help them!  But, that hasn't gone well on here. 

How will you ever grow a business and be that professional if you don't acknowledge people and build relationships? 

So.....I'm curious! 

Why are you here? 

Does this speak to you?