How Support Networks Amplify Success
Nicole Smith , SAYge Pro and Caregiving Coach
Networking works when done well.
Woody Allen is quoted as saying, "80% of success is showing up." Networking is necessary in building a business. The marketplace is competitive and noisy. One way to stand out is to stand together. A little effort in cultivating authentic relationships goes a long way in building and maintaining a network. Simply showing up in person or online to an event immediately establishes credibility. Once you are present, mind your attitude and approach to make better connections.
Active Listening
People love to talk about themselves. This gives you an opportunity to learn about what they do and who they know where you might align.
Focused attention
Place emphasis on how you might be able to offer a recommendation or connection to someone. The goal is to be relational, not transactional. Pay attention to what another person is sharing instead of sweeping the room with your eyes or answering emails while on a virtual call. Reciprocal connections come later.
Attitude of Abundance
A scarcity mindset squashes potential for collaboration. Being open to synergy makes room for more opportunities.
Networking advice from Fran Hauser, bestselling author, keynote speaker, champion of women in the workplace and a LinkedIn Top Voice.
"Practice: Engage in conversations with others, whether it's through discussions, debates, or storytelling. Pay attention to how you communicate your ideas (including phrases, tone, and nonverbal cues) and how others respond. This feedback can help you refine your voice over time."
After showing up, the next critical piece is following up. Find your new contacts on LinkedIn and add a note reminding them where you met and what you discussed. Make an email introduction to a friend who may benefit from their expertise.
Seek out events related to your industry on MeetUp or Eventbrite. Join the local Chamber of Commerce. Ellevate is a national virtual network of women supporting each other in Circles, Squads, and through events.
Advice from Susan McPherson, serial connector and author of The Lost Art of Connecting: The Gather, Ask, Do Method for Building Meaningful Relationships.
"For me, it's always been about leading with how we can be helpful to others."
Attend events with an air of curiosity and be prepared to be a little vulnerable. People can easily recognize authenticity and are turned off by audacity. Show up if you sign up and see where it goes. No need to fill your calendar with events, abide by the Pareto principle: 80% of outcomes come from 20% of causes. See where you end up with your networking efforts!
Nicole Smith is an author and advocate for dementia awareness and education. Her book, Diagnosis Dementia: Your Guide for Eldercare Planning and Crisis Management is part memoir, part prescriptive resource book for people caring for aging parents. www.njsmithbooks.com