Diving Into the Networking Pool

“Secret” of the Month:  #22

“Do the things that come most easily to you first.  That you do something is more important than what you do.  Start easy and build as you get more confidence and experience.” – From 102 Secrets to Smarter Networking

The Lowdown:  When I started networking seriously to build my new business six years ago, I hated going to events and meeting new people.  So I started networking with people I already knew.  I met for coffee with old coworkers, friends and trusted advisors to let them know what I was doing and to find out what they were up to.

I was great at asking questions and I asked lots of them.  But I never once asked if they needed a consultant or knew someone who did.  I felt uncomfortable putting people on the spot like that, especially people that I knew, so I didn’t.  But getting out there and doing something, even things that were easy like have coffee with friends, resulted in lots of opportunities.  My best client today is a referral from one of those initial networking meetings.

Once I started generating revenues through networking, I felt confident enough to start inching out past my comfort zone.  I went on to start my own networking group, attend events without fear and even speak at them.  Take some action today that is within your comfort zone.  Even if you don’t feel brave enough to do the perfect thing, doing something will be a big step in the right direction.

© 2003-2006, Liz Lynch
Liz Lynch is founder and executive director of the Center for Networking Excellence which develops products and programs to help professionals learn how to build profitable relationships. If you're ready to start networking smarter, get your free networking tips now at www.NetworkingExcellence.com .

Comments

[Jan Vermeiren]

Hi Liz,

I think you described an issue most of us have.

However there is a very good "solution". The power of your network is not in the people you know, but who they know. In the second degree.

Not only this gives more opportunities (the exponential factor), but it also enables you to have another kind of conversation. You can look for ways how you can help each other to connect to each other's network.

A super question to ask is: "Who do you know that can help me with ..."

Just ask. People love to help. And if they are interested to do business with you they might answer something like "Why didn't you ask this question sooner, I already forgot that you could ME with your expertise."

Have a great networking day !

Jan

The Networking Coach
http://www.networking-coach.com
http://www.letsconnect.be