Networking in 2011 and Beyond

"The thing that lies at the foundation of positive change, the way I see it, is service to a fellow human being." – Lee Iacocca

How do you see yourself networking in today’s market? Networking is not some spooky magical thing that happens all by itself, but it’s a way to build relationships. When do you actually do networking? At the local LinkedIn event (by the way an excellent way to network) when you are in need? Looking to bail yourself out from some business transaction that’s gone bad? You start now and before there is a need. You start where there is two or more gathered. Networking is really a two-way flow process of information between two people.

I’ve always heard it’s better to give than receive. Some will even say, before you can receive, you must give of yourself first. Armstrong Williams said, “Networking is an essential part of building wealth.” Do you think if you went around giving important information away you would be important to others? I would say, “Yes.” Think of a dam holding back all of its water. What good is it doing the folks downstream for fishing, tourism and eco life?

Here are some bullets that will help your grow as a networker:

1. Always carry business cards and a pen with you. Have them in your car’s glove box (Old school term), planner and for smart phone users, have your contact information as a personal contact so you can share data electronically. What do you do with these business cards? See the next bullet.
2. The next time you’re at an event, meet and get to know two or three people. This is not place to do a marathon and meet everyone. Take the new business card you just collected and immediately write on the back where, when and the topic of discussion during your encounter. Write down their needs and services offered. Even write the person’s month and day of their birthday. When you return back to the office, log in the data to your contact manager for an easy look up the next time someone needs their services. I use keywords such as “Private Money," “Real-estate Investor," and “Landscaper.” If you are always sending business their way, that person will be indebted to you (most of the time) to return the favor when you need something.
3. In a couple of days after meeting this new contact, follow-up with a phone call and or send them a card thanking them for their time and a “nice to meet you” note. Also, send them a birthday card. Remember, you're building a relationship and what better way to do this than to recognize them on their birthday. On your last birthday, how many cards did you receive? One, two or 200? These two methods will make you stand out from the rest of the crowd.
   

Happy Networking!

Wayne Bailey is a Distributor with SendOutCards. He has recognized tremendous growth in his personal and business relationships by implementing the strategies he talks about in his articles. You can email Wayne at wayne_bailey642@hotmail.com or visit: www.sendoutcards.com/waynebailey. Want to try SendOutCards for your business? Send Wayne an email and he'll be happy to show you how.