We are bombarded by advertising messages. It doesn't matter
where we are or what we are doing. As an entrepreneur, it
is hard to get the word out. The old adage about building
a better mouse trap now has a corollary, "If you can find
a way to tell them about it."
So entrepreneurs began networking it was the marketing miracle.
We now have networking groups, networking websites, networking
breakfasts, networking newsletters, even networking golf tournaments!
The problem is we find that networking doesn't seem to work
like it should.
If you are going to build
your network you need to build relationships with people who
are willing to give as well as get.
The
biggest misunderstanding about networking is that most folks
think it is about passing out business cards and leads. It
isn't. It is about building and maintaining relationships.
That is what your personal network is, people that you have
a long term relationship with; that know you and trust you;
and are willing to promote you to their friends, neighbors,
and family.
If you are going to build your network you need to build
relationships with people who are willing to give as well
as get. It is about getting to know folks that you can confidently
recommend and who can confidently recommend you.
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