Networking Ninja Tips

ninja quoteYesterday I ranted and raved about networking word vomit and suggested that you be a connector instead – GIVE more than you get.  It sounds good and right, don’t you think?

You might read that and know exactly what to do to accomplish that.  Maybe, though,  you will read it and think it sounds good and have no idea how to actually do it.

Here’s a couple of ways to give and be a connector, even if you don’t feel like you don’t have a ton of business connections:

First and foremost, you know more people than you think you do.  Think about your family and friends, along with business associates.  Heck, even think about your husband (or wife’s) brother’s cousin.  You know the one, he sells the thingamajigs that solves the problem that everyone has.

All kidding aside, if you think like a connector, you will be surprised at how many people you can help.

Secondly, you don’t need to know a ton of people to be a great connector.  As you meet people, ask them who a good client/customer is for them and what resource they need now.  Then…listen to the answer.  Don’t think about the next question or your drive home, really listen.  Then, as you are talking to other people in the room, introduce people who can benefit from each other.

That, my friend, is a networking ninja move.

 

5 comments

  1. Hi Kim,

    Excellent tip about networking which made me realise why my social skills are so terrible and somewhat lacking. I will certainly bear in mind your advice and your networking ninja move, I’m sure it will become very handy.

    Thanks

    Sky

    1. Sky:

      Thanks for being so honest. The great thing about learning HOW to network is that everyone can do it. It may seem like effort at first, and as you build your skill, it does get easier.

      Kim

  2. HI Kim,

    thanks for some great advice on networking.
    It all starts with listening to your peers, a skill which a lot of people seem to have lost nowadays.

    Cheers
    Torsten

  3. Hi Kim

    Networking is definitely a skill that needs to be worked at before you can become a connector.

    I am afraid that like Sky I am not very social in real life although I find this course is making me want to meet all the members. So there is possible hope for me yet.

    I just love your opt-in form Kim. I want one.

    Take care
    Pauline

    1. Pauline:

      Thanks for taking the time to comment. There is definitely hope for you with networking – it is a learned skill, just like computer skills. I will talk more about networking soon and give you some good questions to ask so you can feel more confident.

      Kim

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