Maximize Your Network Potential

Networking is a fine art and it should be taken seriously!  Most individuals think that networking is an vehicle for self-promotion and a venue to sell their product or service.  But the personal relationships you build are much more important.  Your consistent face-to-face interaction will establish you as a friend, confidant, business reference, and the best in your field of expertise.

The best advice for networking effectively is to first SHOW UP.  “Dating” different professional networking groups is a fantastic way to find out if you are compatible with the members and their professions.  Most groups restrict membership to one representative per profession (one industry per seat).  Before you attend a networking event, check with the group organizer (Membership Coordinator or any other board member) to see if your industry seat is open.

Making friendships is the key to successful business networking.  If you are unwilling to invest the time and energy into the members of the group, you will most likely not be maximizing your potential in the group.  Remember, most successful networking & business transactions are made between friends, rather than simple acquaintances.

Most networking groups not only require a consistent commitment in attendance, but also a commitment monetarily.  If you are unable to adhere to the rules of the group, it is best not to pursue membership within the group.  Absences count, and should you fall below the group’s expectations, you could be asked to resign from your seat.

Another responsibility as a member of a networking group is for you to find leads and referrals for your colleagues.  The ultimate goal is for you to refer all business leads to the members within the group, acting as a salesperson for each of them while you go about your daily responsibilities.  You should be willing to give MORE than you expect to receive.  If you have this frame of mind, you will be blessed with as much business as you give, if not more.

The importance of networking is to establish yourself as a person with integrity with the same level of commitment others have. Attending every meeting, volunteering for board positions, being present at different social events, and actively recruiting new members is very important.  The more people you invite to the networking group, the more business everyone will have.

Work hard to develop good, solid relationships and a reputation that your group can rely on.  After all, we’d rather do business with people we know and trust, rather than those listed in a phone book.

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