NETWORKING

 

I think the word I read most on sites like Linkedin is ‘’Networking’’.I read most with great amusement for the sheer lack of ignorance the usage exhibits.We need a Definitive statement on networking and Clear some misconceptions thereon.Here is my modest contribution.

MASTER MISCONCEPTION: Networking is  creating a personal pool of influential people.

It is not.

Networking is the exchange of information and ideas among people with a common profession or special interest, usually in an informal social setting. ...This is the only definition I find acceptable minus its Machiavellianistic connotations ,though what I expand below,per need of the topic goes beyond nobility and is transactional in its bareback avatar.

CONCEPT

People should know who you are. That helps establish credibility and thereafter builds personal value over time. But what makes social networking a powerful tool for leaders depends on how robustly one establishes oneself through their networks.

I read an interesting take on the concept over internet(Ms.Anita Das probably).The writer said,as I repeatedly say that ‘’It has been reasserted by many that in a professional’s life, networking is akin to creating business opportunities. But this critical skill is not about schmoozing over wine and cheese and exchanging business cards as naysayers would make it out to be. It is an art that integrates understanding mind-sets and making mutually beneficial connections underpinned with professionalism.’’

VISIBILITY

The ‘Father of Modern Networking’, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of BNI – Mr. Ivan Misner put the networking theory into perspective with the VCP process. He mentioned a meaningful referral begins with being visible. And their power is based on the social capital they have developed building relationships with people in their network. This does not happen by being sequestered or merely friending on Facebook or accepting a connection on LinkedIn. Social networks are useful but they are no substitute for forming direct personal connections. Face to face contact always helps to create good first impressions and build trust over time. Once trust is established the relationship is valued beyond favors and a credible profile of yours gets registered.

Over the last decade Misner drew his own networking cardinal rules that he says  have guided him. I place out some of his key rules here ,though I necessarily do not agree in most part.

Misner’s Cardinal keys of Networking:

1. Give before you get
If you think of asking favour before obliging someone first, you may be shunned or even despised. Always think of giving first without expecting anything in return. Be generous with giving invitations to gatherings, showing simple gestures to make people feel special will always go a long way.  Results may actualise over a period of time and not be immediate.

2. Be Genuine

Human beings are social animals. We are compassionate first. Solicitousness should form the basis of any relation whether business or personal to develop trust over a period of time. Genuinity and a deep rooted care, interest and enthusiasm for meeting new people should mark the way while extending one’s business network.

3. Be part of relevant industry bodies

In the business of networking it is important to be a part of industry networks that add value to one’s personal development and also help gather industry knowledge and expertise. 

 4. Create a personal brand

Identify yourself first. When establishing your personal brand be mindful to be aligned with your organization's persona. That will also make people value you and help build your connections to generate relevant business when required.

5. Listen more, talk less

Listen more intently than talk. Open a conversation but always make it about the other person. What are their interests, which charities do they support, awards they have received etc. Be focused when in one conversation, avoid butterflying from one table/group to another without spending sufficient time at one. Don’t take out business cards until absolutely required. Be subtle and genuine with your conversations.

6. Be agile and passionate

A good networker will always inspire others to want to connect with them and their business. Show enthusiasm and passion for what you do and how you do it.

So here it is,the concept.Although I’d rather just let the talent do the talking.