Is Networking a Dirty Word?

Business Cards to Strangers

Networking is a dirty word for many people because it conjures up the image of attending those dreadful after-hour gatherings where you hand out business cards to complete strangers that you never expect to see or hear from again.

Instead of networking, think about making connections with other people. In this article I am going to show you three simple keys on how to make long-term connections with other people.

Be a Giver Not a Taker

People tend to connect on a very subconscious level with other people who they sense might be able to help them in one way or another. It's just human nature.

The best way to find out how you can possibly help another person is to ask him questions about things that interest in him, and even more importantly, to listen to what he has to say. This is easier to do with people you already know then with complete strangers, but today's stranger may become tomorrow's friend.

The key is not to be looking for the quid pro quo. Ask questions, and offer help where you can.

Connecting Takes Practice

We all want to be the person who can walk into a room full of strangers and appear comfortable with everybody. Maybe that is a natural ability, maybe it is not.

Like almost everything else, you will become better at connecting with other people by practicing at it. No matter what the event, or where you are, try connecting with the person in front of you right now.

Give the person in front of you all your attention. You can break the ice by asking almost any question that includes the word "you" in it. "Did you travel far to get here?"

Create As Many Opportunities as Possible

Instead of avoiding networking opportunities whenever you can, seek out even more to participate in. Practice makes perfect. If you stick to your guns and force yourself to go to networking events you will eventually become comfortable doing it. When you feel that you have arrived at that comfort point, you can become more selective about the networking events you want to attend.

Go For Quality, Not Quantity

Two or three quality connections in your field may be all that you will ever need. Remember, it's all about giving and not just swapping favors. Give other people your attention, show an interest in them, and the business side of things will take care of itself.

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