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Networking is about meeting other people, making connections, and establishing relationships. There are different ways to approach it: on-line, face to face, large firms, small businesses, general networking or areas of specific interest. It takes time, effort and energy. It doesn't always bring about immediate results.
So is it worth it? Absolutely!
My profession is not a common one, especially here on the West Coast. From the very beginning, it has generated interest and I have spent a lot of time explaining what it is I do and how my services may benefit others, but it has taken time -- and a lot of coffee meetings -- to build my network. I would like to share a few of my experiences with you.
1. Sitting next to an individual at a luncheon one day, we introduced ourselves because that is the thing to do. As we both had interest in our respective businesses, we followed up with a coffee meeting.
Four years later, I was contacted by a member of his staff for training purposes. I continue to enjoy working with this institution in various ways, over a year later.
2. I spoke at a networking meeting for a local group. I met a number of interesting people and enjoyed several follow-up coffee meetings as a result. I also received an email from a woman who had attended my presentation -- she had caught my attention because of her animated facial expressions, great posture and appearance -- but had left before I had a chance to say hello. We met for coffee as a result of her email and a contract for staff training is pending.
3. Six months ago I met a journalist at a networking event. He recently contacted me and asked me to write an article for the Portland Business Journal. His comment? "You were the first person who came to mind." My article was published 2/25/2011.
My purpose in sharing these examples with you is to illustrate that networking can bring about immediate, unexpected results. Sometimes it can take much longer. You never know who you will meet or where it may take you. Get started!
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