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How do I build Networking relationships?
Home » Careers » Networking » How do I build Networking relationships?Posted by Your Guide on October 12, 2005 4:16 PM
The first step to building networking relationships is to remember that it is about just that – relationships. Relationships take time and trust, and that is true in the business world just as it is with your friends and family. The same ways you are most comfortable building relationships in your personal life are probably the same ways that will work best for you in business networking. That said, it is also important for you to step outside your comfort zone in networking to confront some challenges that could benefit you in the end.
Mark McGregor, a keynote speaker and professional presenter with Speaking of Hearts, says the following in his article “The 10 Commandments of Networking” on http://sbinfocanada.about.com: “Countless times I have been to business networking events and have seen people actually run from person to person, with the expectations of first giving away their card and hoping to gather the other person's. How can you possibly build a relationship with a person when your objective is to get out there, and collect cards? Some networking groups make a game out of it to see who can collect the most in a certain time. What a waste of business cards!”
Instead, work to invest time in a person through truly getting to know them. McGregor says his goal when attending a business networking event is to meet and learn to know only three people per event. Once he has built rapport, McGregor focuses on follow-up. “Now is the time to send a nice, customized card, and call a few days after to arrange a time to meet for a coffee or to have lunch,” he says.
Also remember that in any relationship it is important to be authentic and to give as well as receive. McGregor emphasizes that listening to the needs of your new “friend” is even more important than offering your own goods or services.
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