Teaming up

[David Sandusky]

How many times do you go to a networking event with someone you know and/or hang out with people you know and/or work with?

The best way to team up is to separate. You can catch-up with your friends during other times. Your interaction with each other should be in walking across the room to connect others then move on to meet new people. Evaluate your networking time by how many new people you meet and old connections you strengthen.

Note: new to networking? It is a good idea to go with someone you know to make you feel comfortable, but team up with someone connected and eager to "pass you off" in a warm introduction. in other words, don't stand in the corner with your networking partner.

[thubten]

Even for me, a self-described power networker, it is a challenge to remain in the mix during a networking event. I tend to talk with people I already know.

I give myself an assignment when I arrive at a networking event to meet one new key person at the event Until I've made that powerful connection, I will remain "in the mix."

Once I have that connection, I give myself permission to gravitate toward people I already know. It is not uncommon for me to touch base with the members of my network only at networking events.

What are your thoughts?

[David Sandusky]

You have mentioned before, Thubten, the importance of getting outside influences from your various comfortable networks to learn, grow and add value. Getting that new contact or two each time is important in that regard.

Another important point is repetition in networking. Showing up, going back and back and back...building sustaining relationships with people you met before.

A mistake I see often (I am sure you see this too) is people going to an event once, or once in a great while when they need something. The result is frustration with networking and lack of results. Worthwhile relationships take time - show up, show up show up.