I was reading my daily dose of Andy Wibbels when a commenter lamented the lack of networking guidance for beginning bloggers.
Thusly inspired, I say:
1. Networking is about RELATIONSHIPS.
Yes, it’s about KNOWING the other person. Relationships GROW over time. Sure you can walk up to a gal at a party and say, "Wanna link with me?" But, is that likely to happen? NO!
Relationships take time. And, involve at least 2 people. I need to know you BEFORE we get intimate — well, that’s ME… anyways…. maybe NOT you.
2. Networking is about CONNECTING
I want to feel a connection with you. Do we grok the same things? Do we share at least some similar values — and beliefs?
Connecting is about relationships, AGAIN. That is, do we RELATE? Are we sympatico?
3. Networking is about GIVE then TAKE.
No. It’s not TAKE, TAKE, TAKE, then maybe GIVE.
You want something from me. I have worked hard to build a reputation — good or bad I’ve worked it. So, you want something from me…. be prepared to give. And, give before you ask to get.
That’s all for now.
More to come.
