In my last mini tour I gave a definition of a referral. Now I'd like to give you a definition of networking.
Networking is giving people opportunities they would not normally have but for you and your influence.
Understanding this, there are more places to network than official "networking" meetings. You can network anywhere where people are, who need the people you have influence over. You can network anywhere where people are, who need your product or service.
The key to networking is active listening, relationship building, and asking good questions. Here are 8 places you can do all three, and create opportunities for yourself and others.
Your kids sports games.
Professional sports games.
As you perform your side gig. (Denise Huff with Decorating Den Interiors has a thriving interior design business, and works very part time at a local craft brewery. She uses her time at the bar to meet people and build relationships that may serve her in her business.)
Service organizations or activities
Family or high school reunions
PTA meetings or other school activities
Bible studies or church
Hobby clubs
Go network my friend, and remember;
As long as you are listening for opportunities to help others instead of shoving a business card in the face of everyone you meet, you can network just about anywhere.
Faithann Basore and her husband Dave have owned Window Cleaning Plus (WCP) for 10 years. Growing WCP through networking has given Faithann the desire to guide other small business owners through the networking terrain so they can feel comfortable and build long lasting relationships in their business.
Got networking questions? Email me at [email protected].