Today we are tackling a topic that we have never covered before, not even a little. Imagine walking into a crowded room and not knowing who to talk to or what to say, a situation I have found myself uncomfortably in more times that my therapist can ignore. The ability to build meaningful relationships and strategic alliances is a critical part of the success of any business. Today, Andrew and I will discuss a topic that at least from my side of things, have zero training in but is nonetheless a part of my job description and responsibilities in the office. Time to have a frank conversation about the indispensable practice of turning professional interactions into valuable assets. Welcome to EP 154: Networking [Note: If you are reading this via email, click here to access the on-site audio player] [hoops name="top1"] Today we are going to be discussing the topic of Networking as it pertains to business development, not the cat5 cables running from your computer to some windowless closet in the building. On a scale of 1 to 10, I rate myself as a solid 5 when it comes to networking - which I define as “better than most” but worse than those that are actually skilled at the process, and my skills drop off once you get past charm and Leprechaun stories. So when I decided to make "networking" as a topic for today's conversation, I knew it would require a lot of research and a fair amount of self-reflection specific to what I think I am actually good at doing. In preparation I started with the most basic definition of what networking actually is: Networking is a part of business development that ultimately addresses the question of how leads come into the office. This is a topic that I have wanted to talk about for a long time, mostly because I have some pretty significant responsibilities in my office to network and bring in business. I am constantly asking myself “How do I go about networking?!?” There are a million questions on this and depending on your goals, or responsibilities, there are a million different answers to this question. When I talk to the more experienced principals and owners in my office, they tend to answer the “How do you network” question in a similar manner - almost all of them say that it has very little to do with talking about work, but rather it's about making a personal connection and finding people you like and want to work with. What is Networking and Why is it Worth Your Time jump to 7:53 Networking is the eventual evolution for anyone who is in a professional services profession if you have any sort of leadership and business responsibilities. The long and short of it is that networking is the engine that drives your business and as a result, its value is self-evident. Now that I am 15 years into that portion of my career where I have some responsibility to bring in work, I have come into the decision the hardest part of networking is showing up. The second hardest thing is walking up to someone and saying hello and asking people questions. What makes these simple things hard is the idea that you are putting yourself out there and have opened yourself up to some level of embarrassment and rejection. Andrew and I talk about our own experiences networking, the good, the bad, and the ugly, and with the experience and success we have achieved, we have broken this topic down into 8 key areas for consideration. 1. Relationship Building: Initial Contact: Making the first connection, often through introductions, events, or online platforms. Nurturing Relationships: Consistently maintaining and strengthening these connections over time through regular communication and engagement. 2. Exchange of Information: Sharing knowledge, insights, and updates relevant to your industry or profession. Learning from others' experiences and expertise to enhance your own understanding and skills. 3. Resource Sharing: Providing and receiving access to valuable resources such as contacts, tools, opportunities, and information. Facilitating introductions to other professionals who can offer further assistance or collaboration. 4. Support System: Offering and receiving emotional and professional support, advice, and encouragement. Creating a network of allies who can help navigate challenges and celebrate successes. 5. Mutual Benefits: Ensuring that networking efforts are mutually advantageous, fostering a sense of reciprocity and collaboration. Building relationships that provide value to both parties, whether through career advancement, business opportunities, or personal growth. 6. Strategic Engagement: Identifying and connecting with individuals and groups that align with your professional goals and interests. Participating in activities and events that offer networking opportunities relevant to your field. 7. Diverse Connections: Cultivating a network that includes a wide range of professionals from various industries and backgrounds. Leveraging the diversity of your network to gain different perspectiv
