Netwink
OK, we have all heard the term ...Networking.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary definition of networking is as follows:
Function: noun
Date: 1967
1: the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions, specifically: the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business
2: the establishment or use of a computer network

With the above definition I think that this topic is pertaining to number 1.

In the definition there are two key parts, the first is, "the exchange of information or services among individuals, groups, or institutions".

The EXCHANGE, is the important action in this sentence. When you network it is important that you keep in mind this is an exchange. You give a little and you get a little. You give alot and you get more.

How much are you exchanging when you are networking?

Are you suggesting leads or key alliances for the other people that you get to know and trust?

Are you sharing your successes and what works for you?

When you or someone you know, needs a service or product, are you looking online, in the phone book, or in the business cards you have collected recently or in the not so recent past?

The question is what are you doing toward your EXCHANGE?

The second part of the definition is, "the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business."

Cultivation is the action word in this part of the definition.

How are you cultivating your relationships?

Are you targeting people to develop your specific relationship and are you just moving from person to person trying to be that special someone for everyone?

Think about the last statement. What do you think would be more productive to your business development?

Trying to fit the mold for everyone or choosing specific people that can be key players to build a "productive" relationship?

Networking is not, presenting your business to everyone and looking for NEXT.

Networking is not, going to a meeting and as soon as the meeting is done getting out the door to the next meeting or appointment. (that is timeclock mentality)

Networking is about relationships and building a team of people that feel comfortable with sharing what you offer.

Networking is finding out what someone else needs and then being able to suggest a solution to the need and....guess what.... it may not be your product or service but it may be someone you know in .....your network.

Networking is about helping other people. Cultivating the relationships so that you want to help the other people and at the same time you will....let me repeat this...you will be helping yourself.
Look in the mirror tomorrow and ask yourself, "am I cultivating relationships to build my network for exchanging information, goods, and services?"

Till next time...
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