When "networking" became a verb, the business world went insane
A Google search of "business networking groups" reveals about 600 million sites. (Alas, "professional networking" unearths a mere 177 million, which may mean 400 million unprofessional, slovenly and potentially dangerous networkers are roaming about out there). We have networking gurus, weekly networking breakfasts, networking websites, golf networking, networking seminars, speed networking, power networking, after-work networking, peer networking, tech networking, networking facilitators, and networking games.
Since my teens (and before it had any business purpose), I knew how to network. Except I didn't call it networking. I called it going to places, meeting people, and having conversations. If I had something in common with a person I met, I swapped contact information. I didn't worry about quotas, conversation time limits, lead slips, name tags, and weekly fees.
When I started my own business, I made a point of attending tons of networking events. I met great people and many led to new clients. But the "feeding frenzy" vibe of some of these events started to irk me, so I took a hiatus. But I somehow wound up RSVPing "yes" to way too many sub-par networking events this summer. In brief, here are the highs, lows and lessons learned...
- If you attend a networking event on a boat, bring a friend (or a dinghy).
- A conversation exit strategy is every bit as important as a firm handshake. Furthermore, if the entire event seems to be unproductive, finish your drink and head somewhere else. Your time is precious.
- The more expensive, lavish, and well-organized the event is, the more likely you are to reach serious business people. Events with speakers or activities tend to be more focused. (Plus, you'll have something to use as an icebreaker.)
- Beware of networking groups with high entrance fees, rigid lead sharing requirements, and secret handshakes.
- Do not join any networking group until you've given it a "trial run" of preferably two or three meetings.
- Online communities aren't just for kids. (See below.) The jury's still out for me when it comes to these sites. But online contact should play a big role in your in-person networking activities. For example, e-mail the contacts you made within 48 hours -- but say something useful. Otherwise, you're just more SPAM.
- Most important of all -- a gathering doesn't need to be called "a networking event" to be one. Carry your business cards with you at all times and be prepared to meet folks who might play a role in the future of your business. I know people who've met great new clients on airplanes, during fundraisers, at school events, and even at the beach. (No, you don't have to tuck your cards in your bikini bottom...that would be truly insane.)
Feel free to post your suggestions and recommendations for great networking events, as well as your tips and tales.
Can online social networks help you at work?
Still the ultimate source for NYC-based networking (although be prepared to feel OLD!)
Where I'll be networking this fall season (in case you're interested): The New York Enterprise Report Small Business Awards Gala, the New York XPO, and various other NY and Westchester events -- both small and large.