*Being a Master Networker: Ivan Misner’s 10 Must Have Traits

Have you ever wondered why and how some people excel in the business of networking? Well, according to Founder and Chairman of the business networking organization, BNI Ivan Misner, the traits one must have in order to have a successful networking business carry over into personal relationships.

According to the “Father of Networking” (as hailed by CNN) and “Networking Guru” (as hailed by Entrepreneur Magazine), here are ten traits a business networker must have.

10. They work their network.

From the word Network, you can see that it’s net-work, not net-sit or net-eat. So, your mindset needs to absorb and digest this fact. To be master networkers, never allow any opportunity to work your business pass you by. Make use of CRMs to manage your contacts, organize your email address files, always carry a set of your business cards and that of your referral partners and set appointments or one-on-one meetings to acquaint yourselves with new contacts as well as ways on they can help or make joint ventures.

9. They are sincere.

To give real service, you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and this is sincerity and integrity. - Douglas Adams

Master networkers are sincere with every move or action they make. And believe me, this speaks wonders to the other person or party. If one is not sincere, they will certainly feel it. So in whatever task you are doing, give it your full attention. When speaking to your partner/ or having one-on-one appointments, look at them in the eye. By giving another your undivided attention, you are already showing that you care and are really willing to help them.

8. They truly enjoy helping others.

“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” --- Chinese Proverb

As they say, there is nothing more fulfilling than being able to help others to be successful. Master networkers live by this philosophy. They are always on the lookout for opportunities that help advance the interest of other people. If you find this a bit overwhelming, you don’t have to start with something big because in such case, it’s actually the little things that make a huge difference already.

• Endorse them on Linkedin or make a written recommendation
• Write about them in your blog and give them recommendation or reference
• Send a helpful link or article
• Invite them to join other networks/ joint networking
• Help them expand their PR opportunities

7. They know how to thank people.

It’s just two words but saying “Thank You” still works magic. It doesn’t cost anything to say but the effect it has on people can’t be bought. People like to feel appreciated and if you thank others at every opportunity, people will remember you for doing so. Hence, practice gratitude. Say thank you when people help you, when they send referrals, recommend you to their contacts, every chance you get. This is not just basic courtesy, this is the right thing to do.

6. They are always committed to their networking.

Individual commitment to a group effort - This is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work. - Vince Lombardi

Master networkers are on call 24/7. And because they are never off duty, they treat this as a natural part of their day. It comes easily wherever they may be because networking and referral opportunities can be found everywhere, whether you may be at a gas station, standing in line waiting to pay at the grocery store, attending a school activity, waiting for your turn at the doctor’s office or even on a family get together.

5. They have good listening skills.

Communication is a two-way process of talking and listening; however, it is in the latter where you gain a better understanding of what the other party is trying to convey to you. And sometimes, the other party may not be so good in expressing such; hence, you may not to read between the lines. Mastering the art of listening and understanding other people puts you in a position where you can help the other party better and enable you to learn more about him/her for better recommendation or referral.

4. They are trustworthy.

TRUST is a big word. This is basically what makes you credible. And as you know, this isn’t freely given, it is earned. It takes time to develop in the course of any kind of relationship. Master networkers know this all too well; hence, they make sure that fellow networkers see and feel that they can be trusted in whatever activities they may have like handling follow-ups efficiently. Likewise, keep in mind that the reputation of the person who made the referral is on the line; therefore, this should be given due respect.

3. They are enthusiastic.

An enthusiastic heart finds opportunities everywhere. - Paolo Cuelho

When you are enthusiastic, you walk the talk. You make things happen not just for yourself, but more importantly, for others. So, think about the people you know and see who gets the most referrals. You will notice that it’s those who show passion, confidence and belief in whatever they do or are selling. Do the same and see the difference of how people would respond to you.

2. They have a positive attitude.

Nobody wants to be around a person who gives negative aura or creates nothing but drama. Aside from being unprofessional, these traits are just complete turn-offs to anybody. So be what master networkers are. They maintain a positive attitude, no matter what the circumstances. This is basically why they are like magnets. People want to be with them. This takes practice but when you do master this trait, not only will people enjoy being with you, they would willingly and heartily refer family, friends and associates to you.

1. They make follow-ups on referrals.

Following up on referrals builds your credibility and trust level. If a person takes time (out of his or her busy schedule) to listen to you, make a qualified introduction, gain a meeting or personally refer you to a client with a particular need, remember the golden rule to follow-up, follow-up and follow-up (it’s mentioned three times for maximum emphasis). Practice keeping your referral in the loop by emailing them via bcc especially when there’s a result already. Then, keeping number 7 in mind, remember to thank people for referrals so that they will continue to feel appreciated and motivated to continue referring you again and again.

Which among the must have traits of Dr. Ivan Misner do you practice? Do you agree with his list? Have you had experiences applying these tips to your own networking business? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let's exchange learnings and stories!

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About the Author

Jason Bettinger is the entrepreneurs, entrepreneur. Through experience of starting, running and selling 9 prior businesses (he's on his 10th), he does know a thing or two about what makes or breaks a business! You'll find him at the forefront of web innovation and digital marketing, teaching business owners how to leverage Social Media and Search Engine strategies in optimizing websites and online branding.

Today, he focuses in his company, Web Fixers, www.webfixers.com.au which helps businesses demystify the web through fixing websites, putting in social media, Google SEO and landing page strategies that work together to produce fantastic results (digital marketing). Such systems create online lead funnels and automation, which result in more website traffic, more inquiries and more sales. Jason delivers monthly in person education segments about this, held in Sydney area of via his webinars and podcasts such as:

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