Bank Balance Networking

[David Sandusky]

"Just like you can't make withdraws on your bank account until you have committed some deposits, effective networking operates the same way." So said an investment banker friend during a speech he gave in Newport Beach, CA in 1999.

He is right and the commonly used analogy holds water. The challenge is many people become conscious of networking when they need something - job search, new clients, a new dentist, etc. Making deposits a way of life and being aware of opportunities to behave like a connector is a great way to add value and separate yourself from the pack!

[thubten]

I call this outward facing networking, where I ask others how I can help them, and what do they need next. This causes business to move at light speed.

I start by asking them about their project or business. When I feel like I've got a good grasp on who they are and what they're trying to do I ask them, "How can I help you? What do you need next?"

When they respond, I look at my resources and my networks (sometimes after I get home) to see whether or not I am able to make an introduction to what they need. If I can, I get back to them ASAP with an introduction email or an appointment for a conference call.

I know that I will get what I need next when I'm giving others (or introducing others to) what they need next. That's just how the universe works.

[David Sandusky]

"Outward facing" networking is a brilliant way of putting it, Thubten!
Make it about them because it is about them...if everyone operated like this, you would be the benefiting end of someone else's outward facing networking activity. Be like Thubten and lead by example!