‘Networking for Survival’ can be done by anyone

Submitted by Mitch Seigel on Mon, 05/09/2011

I am always asked how I can continue to network at the pace that I do. My immediate answer is always the same. It’s part of me. It is not an extra thing I’m doing at breakfast, lunch or dinner. I’ve seen it pay off so many times and in so many ways that I never question whether it is worth the time and effort.

In September I spoke about networking at an HR organization meeting. I’m speaking for the same organization’s chapter in San Diego in July, and I’m being considered to speak for that organization’s Los Angeles chapter as well. Last week I was at a lunch-n-learn and I ran into the program chair of the L.A. chapter. I got there before her and put my notebook down to ‘claim’ a seat and proceeded to network. When she got there, we said hello to each other. Another coincidence was that she also claimed a seat, and it happened to be right next to me. So for the next hour we were part of the same mini-brainstorming session.

Later that day I was talking with someone who is considering hiring me as an outsourced consultant in sales process and training. He saw me speak at the HR meeting in September. I told him that I’m being considered to speak for that organization’s Los Angeles chapter as well. He let me know that he just spoke for the L.A. Chapter, and that I should use him as a recommendation with the Program Chair. I’m not making this story up. This is real life, and it can happen this way for you too, if you make it happen.

Making Plans for your Networking for Survival process

I didn’t just show up at the lunch-n-learn last week. I’ve been attending because I know that others from HR are there and I may be able to help their companies grow. They also all have networks and can lead me to others who I can serve. So I know the odds are greater for me there, than many other organizational meetings that occur on a monthly basis. And I have three or four other groups to which I regularly attend events for the same reason.

Don’t just show up at an event because someone said to show up. Do some research to determine if this is the best place to meet those who may lead you to what you are looking to achieve. If not, skip that event and wait for one that looks better. Have you ever watched surfers wait for waves? Now I don’t surf, but I’m sure if a surfer tried to catch every wave, not only would most waves be duds, but they would be exhausted before having the chance to enjoy some great rides.

What are your challenges when it comes to planning the way you will network for survival? I look forward to hearing your comments.

Until next time...