Not a Born Networker? Don’t Sweat It–You’re in Good Company
For the majority of the world, networking is an acquired skill. Most people are not born networkers; they develop networking skills through education, training, the right attitude, and long practice.
Any technique of value requires a commitment to learning how to use it effectively. The next generation of business professionals will operate under a different model of management, in which networking will be an integral element. Take advantage of every opportunity you have to learn to network more effectively. It is a skill that will only grow in importance.
It’s like a statement Will Rogers once made about being on the right track: “If you’re just sitting there, you’re going to get run over!” If you are active in a networking organization, you’re “on the right track.” The key, however, is to take advantage of the opportunities that these groups have to offer. This means you need to be an active participant in the networking process to get any substantive results.
Curiously, many people invest time in networking, but not in learning how to network. This is like trying to play tennis or golf without lessons. Sure, you can perform, but how well? Simply attending meetings is not enough.
You need to listen to CDs and podcasts, watch videos, read books and articles, talk to people who network well, and most important, practice what you’ve learned. This no less than what you would do to learn how to play golf, manage people, or sell a product.
Attend every networking event that you can and practice, practice, practice! Practice greeting people, handing out your card, asking for their cards, listening, excusing yourself, and introducing yourself to others. In short, there are many skills to acquire and to perfect; you can’t expect to become a master after your first couple of visits to various networking functions. With that in mind, consistently learn and absorb all you can about how to become an effective networker and make a constant effort to put what you learn into practice.
Networking success is not about being a born natural . . . it’s about learning, practicing, and applying what you learn in order to become a master at networking. Putting in the work to become successful at networking is sure to pay big rewards, not only in business but in life as well.
Do you have a story about how your time and effort in becoming a better networker have paid off in a remarkable way? If so, please share it in the comments section.
Great article. The hardest part about learning to network for me is practicing.
I find way too many people give up too soon. and totally agree with you that consistency is an essential part of the equation.
Dear Dr. Misner,
It is commonly said that it’s what you learn after you think you have learned something that really matters. And then there is the 10,000 hour concept (basically 5 full time years) to master a skill of specialized set of knowledge.
I am approaching my 10,000 hours and I have noticed one thing prominently, I consistently can have 6-8 good conversations with new folks that are comfortable to follow up with. I am amazed at how seldom if ever, anyone follows up with me. An the times the telephone is used are even fewer. Do you think it is because of my braided nostril hairs? JK. But the fortune is still in the follow up.
Be well, “The Father of modern day networking”.
Wishing You Plenty To Live,
Tom Doiron
Atlanta
P.S. Dr. Misner,
You said,
“The next generation of business professionals will operate under a different model of management, in which networking will be an integral element.”
This trend in business is plainly visible and it could partly be your fault. I think you, like many visionaries, were way ahead of the masses.
If I can learn to network and more importantly, apply the learning, everyone can!
If I stayed in my comfort zone, I would truly rather sit in the corner and observe people or better yet, not attend networking events at all. How effective would my networking be? Not!
Four short years ago, I knew less than twenty people in the area. Today, I’m flattered that people often say, “You know everyone!”
I’ve learned something from every article, every webinar, every training event and every networking event.
Applying one thing at-a-time has been successful for me.
Remember-Good things only ever happen with change.
If you need help with anything, please let me know.
Glen Coleman
Mayberry, NC
I just sent this post to my chapter — again — to read and think about.
The first time I read this, I was stunned. I thought I was the ONLY person harboring the secret that networking events were uncomfortable -okay terrifying. BNI has provided me with resources and a positive environment to develop, practice and hone those skills. I am still learning and trying to get better.