I attended a seminar today at Invest Ottawa, it was called Networking for People who Hate Networking. I signed up at the last minute because the thought of even going to such a thing caused me to have mild panic attacks.
I know I have to network, I realize that getting the word out there about my fabulous business is crucial to being able to maintain the business. I hate networking; I have trouble even getting out of the car to walk into a building where such events are taking place. Given the number of people at this seminar, I am hardly alone in this sentiment.
I learned a number of very useful things, including getting into the mindset of “How can I help YOU?” so in that spirit, here is a shout out to the guy who was presenting: Majeed Mogharreban, his website is http://www.99networkingtips.com. You are welcome, Majeed, see I was listening! In all seriousness, I was hesitant and possibly a bit cynical walking into the seminar but I left with a renewed commitment to get out there and network.
Does it seem odd that an individual who had a (I like to think) successful career working with people and subsequently built a business out of working with people should absolutely hate social events where one has to schmooze? I am that person at any event that will glom onto one person and find out every detail about them over the course of the event, but do not ask me to mingle with people. I like to think that I am more of a relationship builder than a social butterfly. Apparently this will serve me well as I get out there with my new attitude and networking tips.
So I am setting goals for networking (2 events a month), for meeting new people (5 people per event), and yes, you will see me coming. I will be the one checking my notes for my talking points, muttering to myself so to remind myself of all the handy tips I have learned...and likely the one who, if you are ever so fortunate, will delve deeply into your psyche because that seems easier than moving on to the next new person.
See you at the next networking event!
I know I have to network, I realize that getting the word out there about my fabulous business is crucial to being able to maintain the business. I hate networking; I have trouble even getting out of the car to walk into a building where such events are taking place. Given the number of people at this seminar, I am hardly alone in this sentiment.
I learned a number of very useful things, including getting into the mindset of “How can I help YOU?” so in that spirit, here is a shout out to the guy who was presenting: Majeed Mogharreban, his website is http://www.99networkingtips.com. You are welcome, Majeed, see I was listening! In all seriousness, I was hesitant and possibly a bit cynical walking into the seminar but I left with a renewed commitment to get out there and network.
Does it seem odd that an individual who had a (I like to think) successful career working with people and subsequently built a business out of working with people should absolutely hate social events where one has to schmooze? I am that person at any event that will glom onto one person and find out every detail about them over the course of the event, but do not ask me to mingle with people. I like to think that I am more of a relationship builder than a social butterfly. Apparently this will serve me well as I get out there with my new attitude and networking tips.
So I am setting goals for networking (2 events a month), for meeting new people (5 people per event), and yes, you will see me coming. I will be the one checking my notes for my talking points, muttering to myself so to remind myself of all the handy tips I have learned...and likely the one who, if you are ever so fortunate, will delve deeply into your psyche because that seems easier than moving on to the next new person.
See you at the next networking event!