The smartest of networking women,...and men, are noted to integrate this networking attitude into their everyday lives and routines. Always seemingly happy, competent and in charge of every situation, they become vivacious and vigorous people, who seem to live in their passion and it is infectious. Out and about, around town, as well as in networking meetings they are respected, admired, and others seem to gravitate toward them. Practicing this philosophy creates an air of success and positive things begin to happen.
It’s an art to fluidly, and efficiently, network as a lifestyle. Every visit to a shop, station or sight involves an enthusiastic positive exchange between the ‘networker/customer’ (you) and the employee or owner. Always ‘being on’ to the outside world takes time, lots of energy, and willingness, but letting your networking efforts be contained to the only the local monthly meeting is foolish. Embracing the tips below will not only increase your network of connections, but also help you polish that stiff 30 second commercial you offer at that monthly meeting. Be encouraged and realize, networking is most successful when the relationships you form grow naturally. Networking everywhere will help you feel more comfortable in your own business skin.
As these relationships begin to develop, you will have the opportunity, over and over, to say who you are and what you do in 30 seconds or less. You eventually create the winning phrase, the phrase that feels the most accurate and comfortable tumbling out of your mouth. The next time you attend an official networking meeting, your pitch will be more natural and inspire more confidence in the other attendees.
The first topic is appearance. I’ll give the subject very few words here. I am not an advocate of putting on a full face of make-up before every trip outside the yard, unless perhaps you sell make-up. However, I advise as my mother did, “Before you go out, always make sure to be neat, clean and tidy.“ Enough said.
Second, routines and patterns help to set you up for success. This is a key idea. The root of this networking philosophy is the building of positive relationships through creating history. By visiting the same places over and over, you will be there enough to develop the types of relationships you need. When choosing your favorites, select the oldest establishments you can find. Using the oldest, tried and true businesses in town puts you within arm’s reach of the people that have more history in the town. Over time, you can change some of your selections and create history at other places.
Even a short visit to the convenience store, grocery store or the Post Office, should ALWAYS include big smiles, sincere positive side talk, (funny is good if you can pull it off). Friendly, non-aggressive eye contact is imperative. Eventually you’ll visit at a time where conversation can begin. If possible, use your personal working experience to relate to each person. Some of these places have a history of their own, find out what it is. Often this will give you some interesting ideas for conversation starters when you are there. Better yet, ask the employee or owner!
Third, resist the urge to draw them into any negative conversation about their company. Avoid openers like “They made you work at night? They stink!” Just be happy and friendly and smiley from entrance to exit. Most customers are a bit more stiff or formal, you’ll be different, stand out, easily remembered and that’s the point. Be sure to consistently offer SINCERE happy gratitude before walking out the door, every time.
As for Wal-Mart,…you can bet I make sure to greet the greeters, ….every time. You should not pass an employee without quickly smiling and saying hello. Feeling sad? Take a few moments for yourself, stroll around the outside aisle at whatever Wal-Mart you live close to, and smile at each employee. Not only will you be well thought of, you’ll feel better as each one smiles back at you!
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