Blog Post: The Power of Words: Networking your way to new connections and a better outlook

Whether you’re looking for a job, have a job, are hiring or even none of the above, networking can be invaluable part of who you are and what you do. But networking isn’t just about the free lunch (if there is one – and you know the old adage about that anyway). If you want to get the most out of business networking and cultivate a network of endless referrals, follow these commandments:

1.        Build, don’t sell: Don’t view your encounters as selling opportunities, but as relationship builders. Nobody wants to be cornered or pressured. 

2.        Listen. Don’t go on and on about your experience, your business, your education or your significant other. Ask questions and listen to the answers so you can find some common ground upon which to have a real conversation.

3.        Ask. Questions and comments about their companies and even their hobbies and families will get you further than just the typical, often boring business card exchange and small talk.

4.        Be specific. Don’t generalize or assume when discussing what you do or what you are looking for. Give specific scenarios so your conversation partner knows how

5.        Be a connector. Find ways to refer others to one another even when there is no direct benefit to your job or business situation.

 When it comes to the language of networking, be sure it’s all about them and less about you. Like advertising, networking is all about a “what’s in it for me” approach. But the approach needs to be turned around so that the person benefiting is your conversation partner and not you, yourself and you. If and when you make the exchange about them and not you, you will find that opportunities begin to present themselves to you in ways you may not have even imagined.