The Power of Networking...for the 'Shy Networker'.

[Lorrie A. MacGilvray]

The Power of Networking…for the ‘Shy Networker’
…Finding your way without a road map.

By Lorrie A. MacGilvray – reMODEL Consultants International Ltd.


My ‘Promise’ and ‘Hope’ to you, the ‘Shy Networker’…

• ‘Promise’ a different way of thinking about networking.
• ‘Hope’ you will feel different about networking and see it in a more 'Positive' light.


Very basic broad thoughts on Networking…
• Thesaurus version of ‘Networking’

Network = System (n.) Network = Meet People (v.)
- Net -Make Contacts = Introduce yourself
- Complex - Exchange Ideas -Make Friends = Befriend
- Set-up - Interact = Act Together Take up with
- Set of Connections Work together Get in with
- Arrangement Cooperate Become acquainted
- Association Relate Get on with people
- Group Intermingle Strike up friendship
- Win peoples’ hearts


Important - Very basic broad thoughts on Networking…
• Lorrie's version of Networking (Event)...It is a Big, Fun Business Get together!

• It is an opportunity to get out and see people you know (and do not know) as well as share ideas with other Business People ‘Outside’ your own company, circle of friends and acquaintances.

• Usually with a bit of good food and great information learnt and shared from experts in their field (be it the speaker or other attendees).
Very Important - Very basic broad thoughts on Networking…

• Power of One is Awesome...
• Power of Two is Unstoppable...
• Power of Many...Can Move Mountains in the Most Positive Ways!


Specific thoughts on Networking…
1. Listen!.... Be a good listener first.

2. Understand!.... Listen so you can better ‘understand’ others needs.

3. Connect!... Ask questions of what others needs are to better ‘connect’.

4. Building Relationships & Friendships!... Every networking event is an opportunity to develop new ‘business relationships’, as well as ‘friendships’.

5. Give!... Always ‘give’ something to the other person be it in some way you can personally help with a solution or by providing them with someone else you know who can.

6. Thank You!... ALWAYS say ‘Thank You’!

7. Have Fun!!... Everyone is there for the same reason…really.


Do’s and Don’ts about Networking…
#1. With no Exception!... Do Not Complain!

#2. Do …Always carry business cards and something to write with whenever you leave home (not just the office, home)… Always write on their card the date, event and something to trigger your discussion.

#3. Do …Always follow-up ASAP… Especially if you promised to provide someone with something. A name and phone number of someone, an article about something you discussed, etc.

#4. Do …Ice Breakers…
• Hello my name is… Here is my business card. What is your name and what do you do?… Is a good one. As simple as that may sound many people cannot and do not even get that out.
• Try thinking of it as though you were lost and needed directions. What would you do or say?

#5. Do …Professional Events - Professional Dress

#6. Do …Name Badges… I don’t care ‘what side’ you wear it on, just wear one! It should be clear and readable with your name on two lines in big block letters. Bigger the better. Forget the business name on the badge, takes up too much room and that’s what your business card is for.

#7. Do …Always leave a lasting good impression… something you will be remembered by, not just your business card. And the story about Aunt Martha’s stuffed dead dog simply is not it. May leave something for you to be remembered by, though not the way you want.

#8. Do …Introduce some else to others in the ‘most complimentary’ way or don’t bother!

#9. Do …Ask the question…Who do you know and what’s their number?

#10. Do …Have fun!


Let the Networking Begin!
• Networking is not about doing something under pressure. It ‘is’ about doing it your way, being comfortable and having fun meeting others all at the same time.

• There are times I go to an event to see the speaker and hopefully run into someone I have met at that or other networking events previously. It is seeing that familiar face again and getting to know that person one-on-one a bit better so when I or someone else is looking for their service, it is their business card you go to. It is also knowing you have someone to ring and comfortably ask the question…”Who do you know and what’s their number?”.

• Always take advantage of the networking time provided at any business event. Most have time allotted prior as well as after and depending on the event during the break as well.

• My business road map creation never ends. One of my very best employee ‘recruits’ came from the little drive through coffee shop I stopped at every morning on the way to the office.

• Think of a ‘Business Networking Event’ just as you do every day life from business to family and friends. If you want the best plumber or electrician, you ring someone you know and ask… “Who do they know and what’s their number?” Why not look at networking events in the same way as asking a friend who they know?

• Lastly… Why not think of it as…Finding your way through ‘Business Networking’ without a road map and every person you meet and every business card you have in your file today, is helping create your ‘Business Network’ road map…


Bottom line…
It’s all about ‘Relationship Building’ first and foremost! The business will come.


Until next time…. Happy Networking!

[David Sandusky]

Thoughtful advice for all networkers and the shy can take note in an important process.
Networking can be tough if you don't have many connections at a particular event. Clusters have already started, how do you break-in, right? I'll tell you, that cluster has formed for safety in many cases. Many people are like you, shy networker. Be honest as another way to break the ice.

[tele]

Originally Posted by David Sandusky

Many people are like you, shy networker. Be honest as another way to break the ice.

i believe this because many people are activity networking when in need adding fear to shyness. being honest about shy/nervous could breakdown the wall. i'll try this when standing in a corner or wandering/watching

I read this post and others some time ago and have tried to improve my attitude about networking and have even attended some events.

I still feel anxiety to the point were I really do not want to attend any more events. I recognize that I need to. Any more advice?

[KKauff]

I feel your pain. It helps me to ask about them and shut up. Sometimes it turns into dialog. Many times it is the niceties and we all move on. Exchange cards and follow up on email.

Good post. What is your advice for networking at the office with members from other departments?

[David Sandusky]

Originally Posted by Fairfax

advice for networking at the office with members from other departments?

No different if you goal is to listen and add value. Learning to understand and communicate cross discipline will become an asset in your career.