Many people don’t fully understand what networking is and how it can add value to their lives and businesses. If it is done effectively and strategically, then you can reap the rewards. When this happens, you want to do it even more. Below are several misconceptions about networking:
Networking is not….
- Selling your products or services during your first encounter with someone
- Building a network just when you need help such as finding a job
- Only one side benefiting
- Using someone to get what you need
- Expecting opportunities to happen overnight
- Just for schmoozing
- Just a numbers game
- Just a one time transaction
- Just for outgoing people
- Just for job seekers
What others misconceptions come to mind?
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Networking is NOT just attending events (like mixers and luncheons). Any time you are communicating in any way, you are networking. Even when you are sitting in your office alone and thinking about an introduction or opportunity you can offer one of your contacts, you are networking. Networking is a state of mind--I am always impacting my relationships in some way. Be deliberate about affecting them positively.
Posted by: Sara Blumenfeld | July 14, 2010 at 12:22 PM
Great additional insight Sara. I agree that networking is something that you are always doing whether you think you are or not.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | July 14, 2010 at 07:52 PM
Networking is not just distributing business cards.
There needs to be trust generations when you give a business card.
Jordi
( www.jordi.pro/netbiz )
Posted by: Jordi Robert-Ribes | July 18, 2010 at 06:52 PM
Yes, good additional point Jordi.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | July 18, 2010 at 07:41 PM