5 Online Networking Tips For Success

Today I had an unexpected friend request and personalized message from someone wanting to connect. Being the open minded, optimistic person I am, I made the connection excitedly hoping to make a new collaborative or referral partner. 

After thanking the person for connecting, I received a rather shocking response, quickly cutting to the chase and immediately asking if I needed their services. Rather frustrated at his lack of interpersonal communication skills and no regard for building a relationship, I answered politely, not at this time. 

Without going into detail, this circumstance brought me to the conclusion this happens more times than it should and prompted me to write 5 keys to networking. 

1. Genuinely Care For Others' Needs

In such a fast paced society, it can be hard to slow down and truly understand the needs of others. Whether it be for acceptance or needing a product or service that the other person provides you will not know what is needed until you build the trust of that individual by asking inquisitive questions sometimes not just about business.

2. Understand Their WHY

In many cases people who are in business for themselves or others want to make a living to provide for their family, community, and themselves. Understanding who that person is and what propels them to continue to propel them forward iis an exceptional way of creating a solid bond between each other. 

3. Personalize Every Conversation 

Every conversation you have with another person must be personalized. In order for the other person to know you truly care there is a sense of transparency needed to break their walls down that may have formed on past experiences. 

Just because you can send out hundreds of automated emails and messages doesn't mean you should. In life, it is about building deep relationships that will pay off in the long run. Invest in relationships like your life depends on it, because it does!

It's all about quality not quantity. Word of mouth referrals are the most valuable. And how will you receive word of mouth referrals if people feel as if they're just another number. 

4. Serve Your way to Success 

Often we come across self-serving individuals who could care less about going the extra mile and serving in their greatest capacity. When networking with potential customers, or wanting to develop a relationship with others, having an attitude of service will dramatically reduce anxiety of the perceived outcomes, in addition positioning yourself as a trusted friend. 

5. Listen to Understand 

When developing your initial relationships, it is important to listen to understand and hold back your impatience to speak. As we all have experienced people cutting us off to interject their thoughts and opinions mid conversation, it is best to patiently wait to speak and seek to understand while formulating a correct response. 

By using these 5 tips to create deeper meaningful relationships in person and online you will find yourself having more success in the areas you desire. 

Thank you, 

Your Business Consultant 

Nathan L. Byrd