Attend two meetings before joining." This is true more than ever in today's competitive world. You will always have opportunities to meet new people to add to your list of contacts. Because we have broadened our definition of networking to include its purpose, we really don't have time not to network. Not knowing what constitutes the difference between the two makes it easy to network in a negative manner. You may be basically a shy person, possibly feel you don't have the resources, or as most of us are today, just plain busy. Help others connect to the people you know can help them, keep your promises and stay in touch. Networking is not something that comes easily to many people. To give you an idea of how the term came to be misunderstood, lets first look at the dictionary definition.
Once you have established a relationship, identify the people who can help you, stay connected, and keep your network growing. While at the meetings introduce yourself to two people and exchange business cards. As the old saying goes "It's not what you know but who you know. We need to view networking in a much broader concept than the dictionary definition. The continual building of relationships that can last a lifetime is what makes networking an ongoing process. Networking can be done any place, any time. You may feel you just don't have the time to network.To give an example of how this works, identify a group that you would like to join. The fact is that every time you meet someone new, you are given the opportunity to network, learn new things and enrich your life.
Arrange two follow-up meetings for coffee or lunch. When we lose touch with someone, then call on them when we are in need, we have just created a negative networking situation. Positive networking needs to become a way of life. Keep in mind that it is something you will need to constantly work at and before you know it, you will have a strong network behind you to back your efforts.Networking, even to a seasoned professional, can seem intimidating or scary at times.I am sure that you will agree that the term "networking" is one of the most over-used and misunderstood words in our vocabulary." What we don't see included in the definition is the purpose of networking. Building relationships that will help you reach your potential is easier than you may think. The reason for this is due to the fact, that networking can be positive or negative! We don't often think of "negative" networking.
Now you will know if you truly want to be part of this group and you will have expanded your network by two. Identify the organizations and activities where people you want to know gather, get involved and become known. To paraphrase the dictionary, networking is defined as "the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions. Learn about the other person you are networking with and how you can help them.Networking takes time and will be ever-evolving. These are all important aspects that are often overlooked when developing network relationships that are mutually beneficial. Welcome new opportunities to meet new people. Don't save your networking for specific situations or places. Networking does not have to be difficult, in fact it can be fun.