The True Art of Networking
by Bob Young of biz2biz connections
biz2biz News - October, 2010

I have found with my experiences in the world of networking that many people do not understand the true art of networking. "They don't know what they don't know".

So many business people attend networking events to meet and SELL someone their products or services. They also believe they have to meet those exact prospects in attendance to fulfill that goal. When they do not find them, they usually say; " Well, this group doesn't have what I need". Or maybe even; "Networking doesn't work".

To all those naysayers I am sorry, but networking does work! If you follow some basic fundamentals. The most important is Networking is ALL ABOUT building relationships!

Statistics show that, on average, we each know approximately 250 people. So, if you worked any group of people and built those strong relationships, with let's say 10 of them. That would equal 2,500 people they know, and in those 2,500 the good possibility is there would be some ideal clients needing or using your products or services.

That is where the magic is. And the magic only happens when those relationships have built the confidence and trust that are absolutely necessary for them to open the golden gates of referrals. That's when your new business friend says those magic words to one of their other friends; "Hey Joe, I know someone you need to meet. They have really impressed me with their knowledge, integrity, etc." (you get the picture).

So, the next time you are getting ready to attend a networking event - Set some goals

• I am going to meet at least two new people to start the process.
• I am going to set at least one 1 on 1 meeting with one of those new people, or with someone I already have met but want to get to know better.
• I am going to mingle and not be stuck in a comfort zone with people who are already strong relationships.
• I am going to have a good, fun and profitable experience with this time investment I have made.
• I am going to remember I am netWORKING not just socializing.