With relationship building, you will meet a lot of people in various situations. As you get to know people, opportunities will present themselves to you. Don’t be too quick to say “No, I don’t have the time”. Spend time thinking about what has been proposed. As you become someone who people respect and remember, you will be approached with ideas. Branding yourself is a great way for people to remember you.
Try to see the positive in every opportunity and say “yes” to as many as you can. Of course, you need to make sure that you are genuinely interested, otherwise, it may be a waste of your time. You never know where it could lead to so take a chance.
What are these opportunities you ask? I am referring to people asking you to write articles, plan an event, speak at an event, work on a project, etc. The fact that people took the time to think of you is an honor. More exposure is good because each new opportunity will provide you with the chance to meet new people.
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Hi Jason,
you are right about not to say "no" too fast especially with regard to the examples you give.
However in general many people say "yes" too much, hence crossing their own boundaries and not feeling happy about it.
The reason they say "yes" is that they don't want to harm the relationship with the person asking for help.
So what I advise people in my training courses is to say "No, I can't help you, BUT I will look in my network who I can connect you with who CAN help you or who I think knows the person in the best position to help you."
Have a great networking day !
Jan
Jan Vermeiren, Founder of Networking Coach (http://www.networking-coach.com)
Posted by: Jan Vermeiren | October 21, 2008 at 12:57 AM
Very good point. The key is that you want to help people whenever you can. I agree that if you can't help yourself then you need to open up your network.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | October 21, 2008 at 08:06 PM