The following article that I wrote appeared in the August Soho Magazine. You can also find it online at Sohobiztube.com.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T Networking
Though it seems very obvious, many people need a constant reminder that it’s important to treat people with the respect they deserve – and the same respect you want from them – no matter what. Without proper treatment, people won’t want to do business with you.
Be Polite
When you meet people for the first time, be polite and treat them with respect. Even if you don’t want to talk to someone, make an effort to be nice and make the person feel like you care about the conversation.
If you have to leave a conversation, use good judgment about when you should cut the talk short. Don’t be rude about it. The last thing you want to do is create a negative impression of yourself in networking circles.
For people who you have met before and happen to see again, the same attitude is important. Be polite when interacting with these people. By having this mutual respect with others, networking and doing business will be a more pleasant and effective experience.
Follow Through
Following through with people is one of the most important aspects of networking. Whether you promised to provide some information, make a connection or help with a project, it’s imperative for you to fulfill your promise. Otherwise, people won’t take your networking efforts seriously. People too often don’t follow through after these conversations.
By not following through, you aren’t treating people with the same kind of respect that you would expect from them. After you tell people you will act on a promise, you have expended some of their time and effort. The last thing you want to do is waste anyone’s time.
The chance of building a relationship with individuals is more difficult when you don’t follow through. By following through, you are taking the next step in forming a new relationship. This is vital to expanding your business network. Make yourself stand above the crowd and do what you say you will do.
Think of Others
Another great way for you to stand apart and to treat people nicely is to constantly think of ways to help them. Whenever you come across something that you think someone in your network can use, share this information with them.
For example, if you read an article about a certain industry or technology that you think your contact at XYZ Company would like to read, e-mail or mail it to this person. Your contact will appreciate your thoughtfulness.
You can also think of others by making an introduction, providing event information, remembering birthdays, and inviting people to lunch. In networking, you want to make sure you stay in front of people so they remember you.
By constantly thinking of others, you will make a good impression and come across as someone who takes business relationships seriously. This is very important in networking circles. Because of your efforts, people should see your generosity and treat you well.
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was written by Linda Kaplan Thaler and Robin Koval who have also written the bestselling book 
. Linda is the CEO and chief creative officer and Robin is the president of The Kaplan Thaler Group, creators of the AFLAC duck. Their new book goes against the grain and says that you should pay attention to the small stuff because it can have a significant impact in your professional and personal live.
