[Another BRIEFLY STATED post, which means that it’s easy to read, think about, and add your own thoughts]
This past week at one of my face-to-face networking activities, I heard one tip about networking that really resonates with me:
When you attend any networking function, do NOT go with the idea that you want to SELL something; rather, go looking for something to Buy and someone to buy from.
Your thoughts?
Short and up to the point. Many people want people to hear about them or to show others their products but then they are not interested with what the other people have to offer. Who will listen to you if you do not listen to them?
Hey Shari,
Love it….short, simple, and profound. We all need to take the focus off of what others can do for us, and begin to think about what we can do for others. As the saying goes, when we help enough people get what they want we will always get what we want.
Blessings, and Happy Thanksgiving!
Kathy Jodrey
and your quote is profound, as well
🙂
the idea behind it is EXACTLY why I love being a teacher
:-)))))
This is absolutely right on. It’s the whole philosophy of the more you give the more you get. I am part of an awesome organization called eWomen Network, and during our 60 second elevator pitches, along with sharing who we are and what we do, we also share what we are looking to buy in the next 30-60 days. Then people write on the back of their cards if they have referrals for what you’re looking for! So the focus is on helping others, connecting people and making business happen. It’s brilliant.
Thanks for sharing a simple yet powerful concept, Shari!
Beth, tell me about eWomen Network. How did you hear about it? How did you get started? Perhaps I can interview for my blog?
🙂
That is so true Shari. If you go in with that attitude you will always come out with more than you expected. Because you’re going in with an open mind and not an agenda. Great point and thanks for sharing it.
Michael
That word EXPECTATIONS, Michael . . . it can get you in trouble. No expectations. Just see what you can learn [not what you can sell].
Shari and everyone: Yes…this is true. I would like to add to this…ask questions about them and show genuine interest in hearing them share their information. I believe that everyone is unique and has a story to tell…so, I go to these networking events with that in mind and it generates success — success in developing long-lasting relationships. Thanks! Diane
Hey Shari,
Who is going to be interested in you if you are pushing your own agenda? It’s always better to listen first, connect, and build a relationship ….excellent tip!
Seeking to buy goes back to listening first akin to seek first to understand which may create a lasting relationship more beneficial than a single sale. Nice post.
You are SO CORRECT, Steve. In fact, I wrote a post on this blog “Listen to me before you tell me what to do.” It never ceases to amaze me that people don’t understand that the world has changed, and that we prefer to go out looking for what we want . . . not having things thrown in our faces.
🙂