The majority of professionals attend business networking events to achieve either: job leads, referrals, exposure, connections and opportunities to grow their business. Some leave very disappointed and become convinced that networking is a complete waste of time.
But I’ve also watched people walk out with a handful of business cards feeling happy, inspired and excited.
The major difference between these two groups of people is this: the people who leave having made numerous business connections have just one goal in mind — to figure out how they can assist others in the room.
True business networking occurs when there’s an understanding that everyone in the room has equal value. In its purest form, it’s about like-minded people enjoying other people, communicating their passions and connecting with others who share those passions. It’s about listening, figuring out what others need and connecting them with people you think can help, without any designs for personal gain.
The most successful networkers build genuine relationships and give more than they receive. They go beyond thinking, “What’s in it for me?” to ask “How can I help?”
Written By: Clair Zeto
Clair Zeto
CEO of The Social Register of Las Vegas
702-256-0123 | czeto@socialregister.com