Networking is a powerful tool.
Just to be clear, we are NOT talking about running miles of
cable from one computer to the next and we are NOT talking
about recruiting people for a business opportunity. What we
ARE talking about is recognizing, developing and profiting from
your NETWORK of contacts, no matter what business you are in.
We all know more people than we think we do. Surveys have
shown that, by the time we graduate college, most of us know
about 250 other people. The Internet has changed all of that.
That number goes way up when you think of people you know via
the Internet. Let's look at five ways to develop your network
of contacts, online and offline, to help skyrocket your business,
no matter what that business is. Make a list of the people you
know and let's get ready to go!
STEP 1:
The first step is to let your group of contacts know what
you are doing. Honesty is the key here. HELP them see the
next level of relationship where you can be of help to each
other in a business setting. If they are going to open their
contacts to you, and you to them, you must both be comfortable.
And don't push it. If they hesitate, back off.
STEP 2:
Ask them how you can help them. Many times in life and business
we get by giving. HONESTLY offering your help to them without
asking anything in return will set the stage for a mutually
beneficial relationship. Honesty is the key. If you have less
than noble motives, stay away.
STEP 3:
Be involved on the Net. The most efficient way to make new
contacts is over the Internet. There are thousands of chats,
newsgroups and forums out there. Almost certainly there are
some on YOUR topic. Get in the swim and meet new people.
STEP 4:
Develop credibility. Here we go giving before we get again.
While in the chats and on the forums answer EVERY question
that you can. Don't answer if you don't know. But if you DO
know, make your voice heard often. Be sure and let them know
how to reach you and, over time, they will.
STEP 5:
Be in for the long haul. If you are not building relationships
for the long haul, people will sense that and back away. Let
people know that even though many things may change over the
years, you won't.
If you begin with these five basics you will start to develop
your own network of contacts that, over time, will mean you
may NEVER HAVE TO FIND PROSPECTS AGAIN. The math is
straightforward. Each contact you develop who shares even one
person with you is opening you up to not 1, but 250 other
potential prospects.
Remember to be honest and up front about your intentions and
YOUR network of contacts will grow up to produce a bumper crop.
About the Author
Maryan Bridge has used the principles here to make
her business a success. You can too. To contact Maryan
visit her website today at http://www.itseasy.bigsmart.com
and see how professional networking has worked for her.