Back in the day, a town’s butcher, doctor, and clergy were great networking resources. Why? Your community was your main network, and they regularly had contact with almost everyone, shared information, and made connections. It was natural to tell them you were selling or looking to buy something, your family business had new products, you learned a new technique, you needed to borrow equipment, or anything that you would benefit from being shared. People were happy to relay information that others could benefit from, too.
My daughter graduated and is looking for a teaching position. If you hear anything, let me know.
Have you heard that Ingalls closed the lumber shop? He’s taking over the general store and restaurant. People are going to line up to have his wife’s rhubarb pie!
I just came from the butcher. He said the Smith’s house burned down last night. Everyone got out, but they lost everything. They’re staying with Mrs. Jones. People are dropping off clothes and toys this week. Father Jim is starting a collection.Most of the world’s success stories have some aspect of behind-the-scenes networking. Nothing beats a good connection in Hollywood or on a college admissions board.
Today, we don’t have to rely as much on others as intermediaries, although an introduction or respectable connection can catapult us in the right direction and help promote our networking purposes.
When we look back, this may be called the Age of Networking or Social Media Era. You can’t make it through the day without seeing or hearing about it. Spread the word. Share your ideas. Connect, connect, connect!
But, hold on a moment before you launch your Twitter presence or create a LinkedIn profile. The most successful networkers move forward with a keen sense of purpose.
Why are you networking? There are more reasons and combinations than you’d think. Not everyone is looking for a job. Seriously.
Establish networking goals to meet your needs. You know how you work best. If you need a formal plan and schedule, create them. If you don’t, at least think it through.
Know what you’re going to say and how you’re going to deliver your message.
Where you network should be the best places to achieve your goals. Don’t waste your time. This is true for all forms of networking, not just through social media. Plan your association memberships and event attendance just as carefully.
Don’t forget about traditional networking — professional associations, alumni groups, social organizations, and even your house of worship. These are great venues to meet new people.
It’s not, however, enough to include someone on your contact, follower, or friend list. Great networkers have a solid method of maintaining contact and building relationships. They also understand how to stay in touch, but not become a nuisance.
For the average Joe — even if he’s destined for greatness — the benefits of quality connections far outweigh quantity when it comes to most networking purposes. OK, my ego wouldn’t mind 1,000 instant followers on The 40 Factor and Twitter. But, unless my networking purpose is to pamper my ego, I’ll have to focus on my goals.
If you haven’t yet ventured into online social networking, don’t be afraid. It won’t bite. Get your feet wet by browsing what other people are doing. When you’re ready, make your plan and start out slow. Stick to your plan, even if you hit a few bumps in the road. Ask for help, or attend a workshop. You’ll be tweeting and connecting in no time. There may even be a blog in your future.
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