Making Networking Work

How can networking work for you?

Many people are making two big mistakes with networking include waiting too long to start and not taking consistent action. Networking is a process, not an event. The longer you wait to strengthen existing bonds, the waker they become. And the longer you wait to make new connections, the weaker your business or career becomes.

If you don't drink until you feel thirsty, you're already dehydrated. Networking is the same way. The time to start networking is not when you feel a thirst for more business or a new job. Don't put off tomorrow what you should have been doing all along. If you need a complelling reason to get moving, consider these ways networking can help you:

1. Save yourself time by tapping into your network to get information or help you complete a task, rather than doing it all yourself.

2. Extend your reach by expanding the number of referral partners who can bring opportunities your way. Sometimes 1+1=5

3. Get feedback on a new idea by talking it through with a few of your contacts. You'll get objective advice and show your creativity at the same time.

4. Fill your pipeline with new prospects even if you don't need the business now. Things can change in the blink of an eye.

5. Help others become more successful. Networking is as much about giving as it is about getting.

Pick something you can do at this moment. Make a phone call to set up a lunch meeting or send an email with a link to a useful article or event. Look for a reason to connect, then make that connection.