Connect-Relate-Network

Networking without a Net

We all know we must “network to get ahead” but how many of us know whether we’re doing it right? Whether we’re owners growing our businesses or employees wanting to get ahead in our careers, networking is a skill we must practice. As a member of a group like Connect-Relate-Network, whose stated purpose is to network, you practice what I call networking with a net. Networking becomes second nature, so you can do it “without a net.”

Ferry Crossing Puget Sound

What Is Networking without a Net(work)?

I took a ferry to Edmonds recently to attend a writers’ conference full of workshops about writing, publishing and marketing. Looking around the conference, I noticed lots of networking. Was it advertised as a networking event? Not at all. Yet, for many of these writers, the networking made the event worthwhile. Writing is a solitary act. Surrounded by other writers who share similar struggles, we made a lot of noise for folks who usually communicate in writing.

We were noisy with the excitement of networking without a net. By “without a net” I mean, it was not promoted as a networking opportunity. However, for those who came prepared, there were many chances to connect. I’m following up with valuable contacts made that weekend.

We don’t always think about networking with others in the same business. It seems counter-intuitive. “Aren’t they my competitors?” you ask. Perhaps. But you might find a partner for a project that’s bigger than either of you could handle alone. If your industry or the product you represent has national or regional organizations or conferences, join and attend. You’ll stay current with new trends and up to date information affecting your business.

Aaron Murphy is a Kitsap County based architect and owner of ADM Architecture. He told me why he takes time from his business to get on a ferry to attend American Institute of Architecture events in Seattle. “Being in a rural community, or as smaller business owners, we can become detached from progress. In a room with 500 people who are in the same field, you can get your continuing education almost by osmosis (though you’re not going to get credits for it).”

Aaron also belongs to the home builders’ association in Kitsap County. First he checked with other architects who belong to find out what they got from membership. While we might hesitate to ask “rivals” for advice, Aaron said we’d be surprised that they will often share freely of their knowledge and experience. His fellow architects confirmed that the KHBA could be a good place for him to make connections.

While the majority of the organization’s members are contractors, even they might be competing for the same business. “There may be a couple of contractors in there that are doing home design and ‘taking work away from me,’” Aaron said. “But more often than not the reality is that they may meet a client before I do. They need to know and like me, too. They’re part of my referral base.” On the other hand, when Aaron has the first contact with clients, he has the chance to recommend the best builder for their project – the other side of the networking equation.

More Ways to Get out of Your Net(work)

Networking is not “sell, sell, sell” all the time. Let yourself be known and trusted – sales and referrals will follow. Concentrate on learning about the people you meet – their goals, as well as their needs and challenges – so that networking is a win-win activity.

Where else can you network without a net? (You don’t always have to take a ferry, like Aaron or I did.) You can think of others better suited to you, but here’s a starter list:

• Local chamber of commerce
• Alumni association
• Continuing education classes (local community college, your professional organization)
• Self-improvement courses and events (e.g., Toastmasters – my personal favorite – for leadership and speaking confidence)
• Community service organizations (Rotary, Kiwanis)

While those require you to show up in person, you can now perform your networking act on the web, through social media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.

Social media, is changing rapidly; there’s always more to learn.

For more information, come to an in-person event with social media expert Valarie Harris, SocialMEDIvA, speaking on “The 10 Dos and Don’ts in Social Media.”

When: December 4, 2012, from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the debut of the new Connect-Relate-Network

Where: the Subway sandwich shop (meeting room), 2238 NW Bucklin Hill Road, Silverdale WA

At Connect-Relate-Network, where our purpose is networking and referring,  you can network with a net. C-R-N’s supportive framework prepares you for networking without a net. Find out more about how you’ll benefit from C-R-N here.

 posted by Elena M. Rodriguez