“It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” - Anonymous
Building a network of professional associates provides numerous benefits including connections that can land you a new (and better) job, move you up your current business ladder and provide invaluable advice on growing a business to profitability. And it’s FREE! So, why don’t more executives and business owners network? My experience shows that many of these well-educated men and women: (1) don’t understand the value of networking, and (2) don’t recognize networking opportunities right in their own backyards. So, to get plugged in to the local and global business community, here are some suggestions that will help you build a web of success.
1. Join the local Chamber of Commerce. These are the regional business leaders that can hook you up when looking for a new position, or drumming up new clients and customers if you’re self-employed. Your local CoC usually meets monthly for a luncheon where you can get some face time with potential employers and clients. Now, be careful here. Don’t come on too strong. The objective of any CoC is to improve the regional business climate – not to hustle work from the membership roster.
2. Join local service organizations. The Lions Club, Jaycees, The Elks Club and other service organizations are dedicated to doing good works within the community. By joining a service organization you demonstrate that you’re a good community citizen and you meet the local power brokers who can connect you with the right people to advance your professional needs, whatever they may be.
3. Teach an adult education class. One of my clients owns an independent stock brokerage. She’s a certified financial planner who owns her own business. Each semester, she teaches an adult education class on personal financial management and, invariably, each semester she picks up a new client or two. (Sometimes three or more.) The great thing about teaching a course is that it establishes your expertise within a classroom setting. It defines you as an authority well beyond the confines of the classroom walls. It’s also a terrific resume credit.
4. Build your contact file. There’s no such thing as an old client – especially if the client or customer is happy with the services or goods you provided. Maintain a list of customers and clients and keep in contact – even if it’s just an email now and then. Also, your Rolodex should contain complete contact information on vendors, outsourcers, other executives with whom you do business and even the names and addresses of your old classmates. Each adds a string to your web of success.
5. On-line networking. Websites like Facebook, Myspace, Linkedin, Twitter and other “social networking” web sites are great places to expand your network globally. When you’re plugged in to the grid, options seem to come your way without effort. You don’t have to work hard to network but you do have to be consistent in your efforts, i.e. more than just a printed card during the holidays. Networking functions best when relationships are built and maintained to the benefit of all parties. So, look around you. Are there professional organizations you could join – a state-wide association of independent business owners or a state legal or medical association?
There are lots ways to connect up with the right people. All you have to do is make the effort. And, finally, not only will you discover business and professional connections, you may make some new friends as well. I consider that one of the most important benefits of networking. Now, what are you waiting for?
Shouldn’t you begin weaving your own web of success?
