As you reflect on your relationship building activities, ask yourself the following questions to determine how committed you are to networking:
- Do you spend time each day and week connecting with people?
- How committed are you to growing your network?
- Do you seek out new opportunities to meet people?
- Are you comfortable talking with strangers?
- Do you find yourself helping others more than asking for help?
- Do you enjoy attending events?
- Do you find satisfaction in helping others?
- Do you keep in contact with people on a regular basis?
- Do you invite people to breakfast, lunch, or drinks on a regular basis?
- Do you go out of your way to help people?
- Have you branded yourself as a subject matter expert?
- Do you write articles or speak about your area of expertise?
- Do you connect various people within your network?
- Do you send out a newsletter or email to your network on a regular basis?
- Do you you have a good reputation in the business community?
What other questions should you be asking yourself?
Your questions represent a great checklist for regular confirmation that you are on-track with the methods you have employed to achieve your goals.
Almost every conceivable goal is dependent upon meeting people and developing prospects for your business. Contacts are critical.
Posted by: Daniel Sitter, Idea Seller | November 12, 2007 at 02:04 PM
Yes, you are right that almost every goal is dependent on meeting people. If you don't meet people on a regular basis, then it will be hard to build a network.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | November 12, 2007 at 08:26 PM
Really a good checklist. I found that I'm some kind of introvert and feel not comfortable to talk to strangers. I believe this is one of the biggest obstacles for my business.
Posted by: Harrison | November 17, 2007 at 05:00 PM
Thanks. There are some organizations that host structured networking events that almost force you to talk with people. If is a great way to get to know people. Check out www.speednetworking.com. Networking is usually something that takes people out of their comfort zone. The good news is that everyone is in the same situation so you can all get comfortable together.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | November 18, 2007 at 07:16 AM
I am fairly new to the internet and blogging scene, but I did check of most of the 15 questions above with a yes I will work on the ones I did not check off. Great blog site, Kudus to you.
Posted by: paradise5000 | November 21, 2007 at 01:44 AM
Thanks. This is just a starting point and things for you think about. There are other questions that you could ask yourself about your networking activities.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | November 21, 2007 at 07:27 PM