I couldn’t agree more.
In fact, networking is not suitable for most of us, but not for the reasons you would think.
Let me explain.
The problem appears by our definition or the meaning we attribute to the word “networking”.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves here.
Here’s a story that will help you understand more.
Part-1: (Net)working
2013 to 2014 I was trying to build my network marketing business online.
Studied everything to the “t” and followed the top earners’ teachings religiously.
Rule #1: Network with as many people as you can through Facebook groups and other social media. Try to connect and chat with them to create a relationship. Present yourself as an expert (about the product/service) but don’t try to sell anything. If you’ve built a relationship, people will buy from you because they trust you.
Tried that…many times, many hours, many days with hundreds of different people from all kinds of countries where people speak English.
The Results
A shit-load of rejections, threats, negative reputation, a messed up Facebook profile and very little money earned.
Why?
Well, duh…(it’s not rocket science)
How could I make someone trust me and invest their money with me if I can’t meet them live?
How could I feel their energy and “decode” all this body tells each, and every one of us has, that makes us worth trusted or not?
Dropped it…
(Net)working is not for me and maybe not for you too.
Part-2: Networking
2011 to 2013 I was working as an insurance sales agent to build my income.
Again, studied everything to the “t” and followed the top earners’ teachings religiously.
Rule #1: Network with as many people as you can through events and gatherings. Try to connect and follow-up with them to create a relationship. Present yourself as an expert (about insurance problems) but don’t try to sell anything. If you’ve built a relationship, people will buy from you because they trust you.
Tried that too, but with different results.
I networked through events and followed-up with new connections.
I hit up strangers passing by on the street and went door-to-door to meet small business owners.
The Results
A boat-load of approvals, respectful friends, people who really cared for and trusted me with their whole belongings and an award for Best Rookie Sales Agent of the year 2012 in my office.
Why?
Well, duh…(again)
I could understand what the people I was talking with felt during our conversations.
Their needs, their wants, their dreams, and aspirations.
I could feel their energy, their approval or disapproval, their pain points and I could adjust my discussion accordingly.
Funny part?
Dropped it…but for different reasons.
Networking is for me and maybe for you too.
P.S. Have you ever been in either side of networking? Do you think that networking is broken and why? Let me know in the comments section below.
