5 keys to networthing
Networking vs Net"worth"ing
Ready to make true connections? Before we address the 5 keys of net"worth"ing, let’s address traditional networking concepts.
Ask ten different people what networking is and you may get as many as ten different answers. A person’s definition of networking probably depends upon their use of this important personal and professional activity.
Networking is defined as a group of people who exchange information, contacts, and experience for professional or social purposes.
However, whether you network to make new friends, find a new job, develop you current career, explore new career options, obtain referrals or sales leads, or simply to broaden you professional horizons, it is important to focus on networking as an exchange of information, contacts or experience. In any industry or career level networking helps you make connections in a personal way and build relationships of support and respect to discover and create mutual benefits.
It is a skill set no serious professional woman of the 21st Century can be without.
Business networking is the process of establishing a mutually beneficial relationship with other business people and potential clients or customers. Business networking benefits are the intangible gains made by communicating with other professionals in or relating to your industry.
Business networking is a term that refers to meeting other business owners, potential suppliers, or other professionals who have business experiences—to help you grow your business. Networking gives you a pool of experts that range from competitors to clients, and allows you to offer something to them; hopefully in exchange for their services, advice, knowledge, or contacts.
Developing relationships as a business owner and offering assistance to others does more than give you potential clients or generate referrals. Networking assists you in identifying opportunities for partnerships, joint ventures, or new areas of expansion for your business.
How does networking work?
You are always networking – whether you know it or not! You probably have contacts through your family, your friends, and your classmates. Even staff, lecturers and alumni are important sources of contact.
Networking events or local business luncheons present you with opportunities to find others who are in similar circumstances as you work to grow your business. These events are generally put together for the purpose of introducing new concepts and methods being used while providing a platform for local business people to meet and exchange ideas.
Prior to digital devices and COVID-19, when you meet someone, you would most likely exchange business cards, and follow up later discussing points or topics brought up in conversations you may have had with them. After a few conversations, you may be able to bring up the issues you are facing. If they open up discussions first, you might be able to begin exchanging information, seeking knowledge, or exchanging business contacts.
Most business people are optimistic and positive. Regular association with such people can be a great morale boost, particularly in the difficult early phases of a new business. You'll find that many, if not all, business owners have experienced similar trials of ownership.
Much of local business is still done on a handshake basis, and the best way to network with other local business owners and entrepreneurs is through face-to-face meetings and local business groups.
You should not only attend the meetings of your networking group regularly but go prepared to offer something of value to the group. Choose the networking medium that's best for you.
What Are the Benefits of Business Networking?
Business networking might allow you to create awareness of or keep abreast of the latest trends or technology in your industry. A network can also provide you with professional mentors or contacts who might be able to assist you with problems you might need help with.
For example, if your business needs the services of a bookkeeper, accountant, or lawyer you may find the ideal candidate through your network. If your business needs equity financing you may be able to find an angel investor or venture capitalist through networking channels.
Networking is ideal for expanding your knowledge by taking advantage of the viewpoints and prior experience of others. For instance, if you are thinking of exporting your products or services, you may be able to get some valuable advice from someone else who has done similar business internationally.
Networking builds confidence, in that that your business and the methods you have employed to run and manage it are competitive and comparable to similar businesses.
Types of Business Networking
As you attend events, look for indicators that someone might be in a position to benefit your business, where you have something to offer as well. This could simply be conversations about your industry's market conditions as well as the trends each of you may have noticed within your industry. You can work together to develop an understanding of the market you both operate in.
Business Seminars
Look for and attend some business seminars—cultivate new working relationships with your new peers and business associates, then communicate on a regular basis to help you all stay current.
The most important skill for effective business networking is listening; focusing on how you can help the person you are listening to rather than on how they can help you is the first step to establishing a mutually beneficial relationship.
Networking Groups
The best business networking groups operate as exchanges of business information, ideas, and support. There are many groups online that offer networking services and communities—LinkedIn is an example of a large networking group or site that can bring professionals together.
Professional Associations
Organizations exist that are comprised of like-minded individuals in similar industries and fields of work. These organizations may have entry fees or other selection requirements, but they can prove vital for small business owners looking to expand their network. The American Management Association and the American Marketing Association are two examples of industry-specific associations.
Key Takeaways
Business networking gives business people the ability to collaborate with other experts to help them grow their businesses or improve their professional lives. The benefits of business networking include:
- Opportunities to help other business owners
- Receiving assistance from other owners
- Additional knowledge and perspective
- Communication with like-minded individuals
5 keys to net"worth"ing for women in supervisory positions.
- Represent yourself in a manner that someone who only knows you in social setting would want to be associated with you
Think about how you carry yourself, what type of reputation you have, and your overall brand. Now, think about whether your online or in person behavior is a good fit for others.
- Give before you ask.
Stop asking people “What do you do?” Instead, ask them, “what are you doing these days that I might be able to help you with?”
By focusing on what others are doing, dreaming about, trying to do, struggling through, etc., you shift your perspective from trading to contributing. Dale Carnegie said it best: “You will win more friends and accomplish more in the next two months, developing a sincere interest in two people than you will ever accomplish in the next two years, desperately trying to get two people interested in you.”
- Know what you want, what you offer, and how you can help others; Be generous.
Be ready to receive when they come through for you. You’ve heard the phrase, “Stay Ready So You Don’t Have to Get Ready”.
- Honor your commitments; regardless of how small or how much time and energy you’ll invest.
- Realize that the person standing before you represent hundreds of potential contacts. Ensure you're someone safe to talk about.
Much Love and Much Respect,
Angela
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Angela M. Odom is a life and leadership coach, founder of The Better U Project brand, podcast host, proud Army veteran and the author of BRONCO STRONG: A Memoir of the Last Deployed Personnel Services Battalion and Golom's Magical Gamers as well as a contributing author to the book, "Camouflaged Sisters: Leadership Through The Eyes of Senior Military Women Leaders".
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