Stop Networking and Start Making Money

I'm talking about "networking." Sure, I've been hearing all about networking for years. I've even used the word myself!

But when you get down to it, networking is cold, sterile… And it seems self-serving: one person trying to form a web of contacts whose sole purpose is to do something for him.

That's not how I want to do business.

. I think of it as "What can we do for each other and each other's communities?" instead of "What can you do for me?"

When I focus on these goals, deals follow. And when a deal is made between two people (notice I did not say two businesses) who have connected - as opposed to "networked" - money usually follows.

Making a connection does require a bit more "work" than simply shoving your business card at a potential client. But the extra money you can make and the new opportunities you can open up to your community are well worth the extra effort.
 

There was no "Hi, how are you?" Nice to see you again." Or even "How are your children?" It was just the typical "WIIFM" approach

My first thought was - do you really think this kind of behavior is conducive to me wanting to do business with you? But what I said was, "Yes, Sue, I received the email on Thursday. I left for LA (this event) on Monday. I was planning on returning your email later in the week."

This is a wonderful example of why many people do not end up with business from networking events. They have not mastered event etiquette.  Nor have they discovered the best way to make lasting connections.

People who should listen to this show are entrepreneurs, career coaches,