Networking Works!

Went to two big networking events today. Very fun, met a lot of people and learned a lot. For example, Networking is NOT Prospecting. No one will buy immediately from you just because you gave them your business card. Here what Dave Sherman has to say, "Networking is the process of creating high levels of commonality and likeability with as many people as you can." Once they know and trust you, it opens the doors for them to want to help you as long as you make it easy for them to help you. Everybody knows somebody who knows somebody who knows somebody. This is where jobs are found and businesses are built. The more people you know the better off you are. Social media like Facebook and Linked-in are important. They are great tools and you need to use them but Dave suggested you still do the bulk of your Networking the old fashioned way by going to meetings. This whole Networking this is based on the idea that people will spend more money with you, more often and with fewer complaints if they know, like and trust you. I couldn't agree more. That is one thing I missed about the Red Star Tribune, I had lots of long time relationships with advertisers with many becoming friends.